The Growing Threat of Saltwater Intrusion in Louisiana's Drinking Water

Saltwater intrusion caused by extreme drought conditions is affecting drinking water supplies in parts of Louisiana, including Plaquemines Parish. The low flow of the Mississippi River is allowing saltwater from the Gulf of Mexico to intrude upstream, threatening communities' water sources. Residents have been relying on bottled water, and water advisories have been issued. Officials are taking measures to address the issue, including augmenting existing sills to delay the saltwater's progression and transporting fresh water to impacted areas. Rainfall is desperately needed to strengthen the river's flow. The saltwater intrusion may also impact commercial waterways, agriculture, and the Port of South Louisiana.