USGS Responds to Hurricane Katrina, Rita, and Wilma

“Hurricanes Katrina, Rita, and now Wilma have given us all a lesson about the destructive force of natural hazards. We are fortunate that all USGS employees are safe. USGS is committed to rapidly providing our scientific expertise for the recovery efforts, this is not only a scientific endeavor, but a matter of public safety and public health.”

P. Patrick Leahy
USGS Acting Director

The U.S. Geological Survey continues to mobilize equipment and personnel to gather the scientific data and information on the impact of Hurricanes Katrina, Rita, and Wilma.

USGS scientists will be:

Collecting satellite imagery to assess the impact on wetlands, coasts, and changes in the elevation
Collecting water samples to determine the water quality in areas where there has been significant salt water intrusion
Marking and flagging high-water marks to document flooding and storm surge
Repairing and replacing damaged streamgages to restore flood warning capabilities
Collecting aerial photography and video to document the impact on the coast and wetlands
Using airborne laser mapping systems (LIDAR) to quantify coastal changes

Coastal Impacts

Satellite Imagery and other Geospatial Data

News Releases

Monitor Streamflow Conditions as Hurricane Rita Moves Inland

Publications

Additional USGS Hurricane Information

Federal Resources

Accessibility FOIA Privacy Policies and Notices

U.S. Department of the Interior | U.S. Geological Survey
URL: http://www.usgs.gov/hazards/hurricanes/kat_rit_wil/default.asp
Page Contact Information: Ask USGS
Page Last Modified: Friday, August 29, 2008