New Orleans to enhance Mardi Gras safety with SEAR-1 federal support

After the deadly attack on Bourbon Street on New Year’s Day left 14 people dead, officials are making sure Mardi Gras 2025 will have the highest level of security ever.

Mayor LaToya Cantrell announced that Mardi Gras has been upgraded to a SEAR-1 security event, a top rating given to events of national or international importance. This change means federal agencies will now provide more help and resources to keep the city safe during the celebrations.

Usually, Mardi Gras is given a SEAR-2 rating, which still allows for some federal assistance. But after the attack, Cantrell and Police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick asked President Joe Biden to approve the higher level of security.

Read more: WWL