Uncovering Hurricane Katrina's Levee Breaching Conspiracy

Conversely, the claim that FEMA failed is well-documented and filled with accusations of negligence and incompetence, especially targeting FEMA director Michael Brown. The bipartisan House investigation, ‘A Failure of Initiative’, described FEMA’s leadership as lacking awareness and preparedness (U.S. House 2–3). Brown was criticized for insufficient experience and poor coordination, including failing to recognize thousands stranded at the Convention Center until media coverage prompted action (U.S. House 142). FEMA’s bureaucratic rigidity worsened the situation, refusing volunteer help and supplies due to systemic disorganization (U.S. Senate 48–49). This failure stemmed partly from FEMA’s diminished capacity after its 2003 absorption into the Department of Homeland Security (Cooper and Block 96–98). Vulnerable residents without resources to evacuate the greatest harm, illustrating how institutional failures amplified social inequities.

The contrast between unsupported claims of levee sabotage and documented federal shortcomings shows that public perceptions of deliberate destruction are rooted in anger and distrust. FEMA’s delayed response, poor coordination, and neglect of stranded populations eroded trust, fostering conspiracy theories, especially in historically marginalized communities.

The aftermath of levee breaches during Hurricane Katrina.