Reconnaissance of the New Orleans Hurricane and Storm Damage Risk Reduction System after Hurricane Gustav

Abstract

On October 2 and 3, 2008, a group of civil engineers sponsored by the National Science Foundation (NSF) and organized by the Geoengineering Extreme Events Reconnaissance (GEER) Association, visited the New Orleans area to assess levee performance during hurricane Gustav.  This paper summarizes the team’s observations and understanding of the state of the New Orleans Hurricane and Storm Damage Risk Reduction System (HSDRRS) in the fall of 2008 and the performance of elements of the HSDRRS during Hurricane Gustav. The fundamental conclusion was that the HSDRRS performed well under the surge and wave stresses generated by Gustav. The team’s observations led to lessons about dangers to floodwalls from boats and barges, the importance of timely preparation for hurricanes, erosion resistance of clay levees, and the need for continued emphasis on evacuation for life protection.