On August 29, 2005, Hurricane Katrina struck the Gulf Coast of the United States, causing catastrophic damage and flooding in New Orleans. Levees designed to protect the city from storm surges were breached, submerging 80% of New Orleans. The storm caused over 1,800 deaths and left thousands stranded without food or water. The federal governments delayed response to the disaster was heavily criticized, leading to widespread anger and calls for reform in emergency management. The event remains a defining moment in the history of natural disasters in the U.S.