Preparing for Saltwater Intrusion: Louisiana's Battle to Protect Residents' Health and Education

Louisiana is facing a threat to its drinking water as saltwater intrusion from the Gulf of Mexico is displacing the fresh water in the Mississippi River due to low river volume caused by extreme drought and record high temperatures in the Midwest. High salt levels in the tap water can make it unsafe to drink or cook with, and can also corrode pipes. Elevated salt levels pose health risks, particularly for those on low-salt diets, individuals with kidney disease, heart problems, high blood pressure, pregnant women, infants, and the elderly. The city of New Orleans is encouraging precautions, such as using ready-made formula or mixing powdered formula with bottled water for infants, and providing bottled water for pets. Without significant rainfall, parts of Louisiana could have undrinkable water for months.