Hurricane Katrina Causes Thousands Dead, Widespread Gulf Coast Damage

Hurricane Katrina, which made landfall as a Category 3 storm along the Louisiana-Mississippi border in 2005, caused catastrophic damage and nearly 1,400 deaths, with New Orleans and the Mississippi Gulf Coast suffering the most. In New Orleans, levee failures led to widespread flooding, stranding thousands of residents and trapping many in the Superdome under dire conditions, while the federal response faced criticism for delays. Mississippi's Gulf Coast experienced devastating storm surges and wind damage that destroyed tens of thousands of homes and infrastructure, leaving large areas uninhabitable and requiring a prolonged recovery. Inland, the storm's effects included a significant tornado outbreak across 12 states, with notable tornado damage in North Georgia. Twenty years later, communities like those in Jackson County, Mississippi, commemorate the storm’s impact and resilience, celebrating growth and recovery while reflecting on losses. The anniversary serves as a reminder of the storm's extensive reach and the enduring challenges and progress in affected areas.