Hurricane Katrina Wreaks Havoc, 2005: Archived Papers
Explore a collection of front pages covering the devastating effects of Hurricane Katrina in 2005, one of the worst natural disasters in U.S. history.
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- Journalism
In late August 2005, Hurricane Katrina devastated the Gulf Coast, causing catastrophic flooding from Central Florida to Texas. The damage in New Orleans occupied most of the media’s attention, due to the failure of the city’s levees to hold back the storm’s surge. Of the 1,800-plus fatalities attributed the storm, more than 1,500 occurred in Louisiana.
Note: The dates are of publication, which may or may not be the actual date of the event covered.
Front Pages Aug. 30, 2005
The previous day, Katrina made landfall on the Gulf Coast.
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The Damage Worsens: Aug. 31, 2005
After the levees are breached, New Orleans floods and the death toll rises.
City Evacuated: Sept. 1
Louisiana Gov. Kathleen Blanco orders a mandatory evacuation of New Orleans.
A Desperate SOS: Sept. 2
New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin issues a “desperate SOS,” seeking federal aid.
Relief at Last: Sept. 3-4
National Guard troops arrive in New Orleans with emergency food and water supplies for stranded residents.
