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The Mississippi River is facing<\/a> a crisis of saltwater making its way up the waterway from the Gulf of Mexico.<\/p>\n Drinking water in some parts of Louisiana is facing a risk from the salt water, resulting in the Bayou State\u2019s Gov. John Bel Edwards (D) saying he is only a number of days away from asking for an emergency declaration from the federal government, according to The Associated Press. The river is also experiencing a drought.<\/p>\n \u201cUnfortunately, we just haven\u2019t had the relief from dry conditions \u2026 so that (saltwater) intrusion is worsening, in the sense that it\u2019s moving further up the river,\u201d Edwards said at a news conference Friday, according to AP.<\/p>\n Plaquemines Parish, in the southeastern portion of the state, is, as of now, under a drinking water advisory from high salt levels in the water, and bottled water is being handed out to residents, The AP reported.<\/p>\n On Friday, the Mayor of New Orleans, LaToya Cantrell (D) signed<\/a> an<\/a> emergency declaration with a focus on the saltwater intrusion. Her office said it would allow the city\u2019s \u201cagencies to thoroughly prepare for and respond to any impending impacts,\u201d in a news release.<\/p>\n \u201cIt also allows for a more streamlined response and for state and federal agencies to deploy resources, if necessary,\u201d the release continued.<\/p>\n For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. <\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n