Corps of Engineers puts off Morganza opening indefinitely

Cover Image
Photo credit Mario Tama/Getty Images

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will not open the Morganza Floodway this Sunday after all, and says it now does not have an expected opening date.

Louisiana Congressman Garret Graves tweeted the news early this afternoon.

Morganza Spillway update:  As of today, the Corps has announced it will NOT open the Morganza Spillway for the foreseeable future.   We are monitoring closely in case conditions prompt future consideration.

— Rep. Garret Graves (@RepGarretGraves) June 6, 2019

The Corps has been watching river levels and anticipating an opening of the Morganza, but they have delayed it at least twice since announcing last month that they may need to open it.

Despite the delays, the Corps says the length of the current river flood situation has been unprecedented, and they continue to monitor the river system and its levees.

"Future weather events could impact Mississippi River levels and the Corps will continue to monitor the forecast daily as conditions can change," a Corps spokesperson said.   

"Operation of the structure will be a consideration until the Mississippi River crests and begins to fall. The expected crest at Morganza is on about June 15th, but it will then remain high for two weeks or more. "

Meanwhile, the Bonnet Carré spillway remains partially open.

Holding at 168 bays open at Bonnet Carre today. #2019floodfight @MVD_USACE

— Corps of Engineers (@TeamNewOrleans) June 4, 2019