A levee is an embankment or a barrier that is constructed to prevent the overflow of water from rivers, lakes, or other bodies of water. Levees are typically made from compacted earth, sand, or concrete and are designed to contain or direct water during flooding events.
In the context of hurricanes, levees can help protect coastal and riverine areas from storm surges, heavy rainfall, and flooding. They act as a shield, preventing water from inundating nearby land, homes, and infrastructure. However, while levees can reduce the risk of flooding, they are not foolproof and can fail if overwhelmed by extreme weather events or if they are not properly maintained.