Gaps in aging levees leave D.C. landmarks exposed

In this April 9, 2007 file photo, tourists visit the World War II memorial and the Lincoln Monument, background, on the National Mall in Washington. To the left and right of the reflecting pool are levees meant to hold back water in case of flooding. By Brian Westley, Associated Press Writer WASHINGTON — Strolling beside the Reflecting Pool with the Lincoln Memorial in the distance, it's easy to overlook a gentle rise in the landscape a few yards to the north. The small berm is part of an inconspicuous levee system designed to protect world-famous museums, the National Archives and federal office buildings from flooding. But the nearly 70-year-old levee is at risk of failing during a major storm — a catastrophe that could swamp portions of downtown in up to 10 feet of water and cause $200 million in damages, according to... [read full story]