New Orleans in danger of flooding

The American city of New Orleans, decimated by Hurricane Katrina in 2005, is still highly vulnerable to fresh flooding, according to a new report.

More than £500 million has been spent upgrading hurricane protection systems, yet the Gulf Coast city would still be brought to its knees by a storm just a fraction the size of Katrina, the study by the US Army Corps of Engineers concludes.

Almost 1,700 people lost their lives in the devastation two years ago and many more appear to remain at risk because of inadequate safety provisions.

The US Army Corps of Engineers, which is leading the reconstruction effort, is pleased to confirm that the once-thriving tourist destination is now safer than when Katrina struck, but is concerned that returning confidence could be shattered by another storm.

And since the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is forecasting one of the worst hurricane seasons for years, there is understandable concern.