Thursday morning started out with some excitement. Tropical Storm Arthur finally made its way across Texas and western Louisiana, arriving in New Orleans overnight. We were awoken to flood and tornado warnings. Luckily, the tornado was several miles away from us and caused relatively minor damage. Still, it was an opportunity for the students to learn more about the emergency alert system and the challenges of tornadoes in New Orleans (there are no basements and few interior rooms in many homes).

Our outdoor plans for the day were canceled due to the storm so instead we headed to the World War II museum. Students were able to explore the museum on their own to learn more about the global impact of the war and the role New Orleans played in the American war effort. They even spotted a few civil defense references!

In the afternoon we heard from Dr. Ryan Albright from Tulane University about the affects of climate change in southeast Louisiana so far. Dr. Albright talked the students through various climate adaptations from big river diversions to raising houses. He also explained the relocation of the community from Isle de Jean Charles, which we will be seeing in person next week. Dr. Albright challenged students to consider how New Orleans is not the only city working to figure out how to survive under increased risk giving the examples of New York City, Hong Kong, and Venice.

In the evening we headed down to Frenchmen Street to hear some jazz music at Snug Harbor. The Christien Bold Ensemble helped introduce the students to the city’s important place in music history.