Researchers are calling for the immediate evacuation of the city of New Orleans due to rising sea levels and accelerated erosion. The city could be surrounded by the ocean in a few decades.

A recent study published in the journal Nature Sustainability warns that the city of New Orleans must be evacuated due to the climate crisis, which has led to a 'point of no return'. Rising sea levels and accelerated erosion of wetlands in southern Louisiana threaten to surround the city with water in a few decades.

Researchers estimate a sea level rise of 3–7 meters and significant losses of wetlands, which will isolate New Orleans and other nearby cities. Although billions have been invested in levees and infrastructure, these measures will not be able to save the city in the long term. Expert Jesse Keenan emphasizes that New Orleans is in a 'terminal state', and relocating the population is imperative. With rapid land loss and major exposure to flooding, planned evacuation becomes a necessary solution, although emotionally and politically difficult.