The Army Corps of Engineers is preparing to open 160 bays along the Bonnet Carré Spillway as the Mississippi River reaches flood stage in New Orleans. The water level has reached 17 feet, but it isn’t expected to crest until May 23, at 19 feet. The Bonnet Carré Spillway was partially opened Monday, but the surging waters continued to race toward New Orleans. Authorities warned they may have to open the Morganza Spillway, which would take a week and threaten thousands of buildings and residents. In Arkansas, where floodwaters have already peaked, the Farm Bureau estimates $500 million in damage to cropland.