These maps illustrate how much sediment flowed into the Gulf of Mexico during the floods on the Mississippi River in May and June 2011. The nutrient-rich sediment is expected to contribute to the development of a record dead zone this summer.
Image of the Day Water Floods
Sediment-laden water pours into the northern Gulf of Mexico from the Atchafalaya River in this photo-like image taken on April 7, 2009.
Image of the Day Land Water
The river drains water and sediment from 31 U.S. states, delivering both to the Gulf of Mexico via the Atchafalaya and Mississippi River deltas.
Image of the Day Land Water Floods
A pulse of flood water from the central United States spilled into the Gulf of Mexico.
Image of the Day Land Water Floods Human Presence
In the summer months, a large portion of the Mississippi River outflow heads southeast into the Gulf of Mexico.
Image of the Day Water
Tan and green clouds of sediment clouded the Gulf of Mexico on November 10, 2009.
Image of the Day Water Water Color
Image of the Day Life Water
Photograph of a portion the oil slick in the Gulf of Mexico taken by an astronaut aboard the International Space Station on July 23, 2010.
Image of the Day Water Human Presence
Acquired November 12 and 13, 2012, these images show a sediment plume along Spain’s southwestern coast.
Image of the Day Land Water Water Color
Water Color
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