In a recent news conference addressing the flood event that occurred on Saturday, Sewerage & Water Board (S&WB) Executive Director Ghassan Korban revealed that the intentional blocking of catch basins, particularly along St. Charles Avenue, played a significant role in exacerbating the flooding. Korban explained that while the heavy rainfall would have overwhelmed any drainage system, the blocked catch basins worsened the situation in certain areas.

Korban stated that the use of "gutter buddies," typically employed during parades to prevent beads and other throws from clogging the catch basins, contributed to the flooding. These items impede the flow of water, especially when heavy rain occurs. He personally witnessed the intersection of St. Charles and Louisiana avenues being submerged due to blocked catch basins, a sight he had never seen before.

However, Korban emphasized that the responsibility of removing the blockages lies with the city, not the S&WB. As the city installs the gutter buddies, it is their duty to actively free up the catch basins to allow for proper water drainage.

The volume of rain that fell within a short period on Saturday evening was indeed overwhelming, and no drainage system could have fully contained it. Nevertheless, the intentional blockages worsened the flooding situation in certain areas, thereby demanding immediate attention from city officials.

The S&WB urges the city to take swift action in removing the obstructions from the catch basins, ensuring efficient drainage during heavy rain events to avoid future flood incidents. The blocked catch basins raise concerns about the infrastructure's ability to handle unprecedented weather conditions and the need for proactive measures to mitigate flooding risks.

As the investigation into the flood event continues, citizens and local authorities are urged to stay informed about their respective responsibilities in ensuring proper drainage and taking necessary actions to prevent future flooding.

The S&WB will closely monitor the city's progress in removing the gutter buddies and clearing catch basins, with the hope that swift action will significantly alleviate flooding risks in vulnerable areas.

Dates and specific numbers of blockages, rainfall volumes, or affected areas were not mentioned in the provided information.