The natural boundary of the Mississippi at this point is the tree line. The River rose two feet in the past 5 days and is at flood stage at the moment. River traffic is at a minimum because of the strong, swift current.
This is the time when barges get loose from their moorings and run rampant, creating havoc and endangering structures along the River.
I feel certain the Spillway locks will be opened in the next few days to prevent flooding in New Orleans.