"New Orleans Braces for Extended Saltwater Contamination in Drinking Water"

New Orleans may face three months of saltwater intrusion in its drinking water supply, lasting until January, according to the city's homeland security chief. The city plans to build a pipeline to dilute the salt at treatment plants, which could become a permanent solution. The estimated cost for the pipeline ranges from $100 million to $250 million, with federal funds potentially covering the majority. Construction could begin in seven to 10 days, and officials are prepared to provide bottled water if needed. Despite the situation, the city's water remains safe and drinkable.