Tulane University said in a statement on Tuesday that it is “closely monitoring” the potential impact of saltwater intrusion in the Mississippi River from the Gulf of Mexico.

With the recent drought in New Orleans and the low levels of the Mississippi River, saltwater from the Gulf is pushing upstream.

The statement said tap water throughout the city is “safe for regular use” and that the school is taking steps to ensure the water on the uptown and downtown campuses “remains safe for all purposes, including drinking.”

The statement did not say what, specifically, those steps are. 

“We are coordinating closely with local and state officials on this issue,” the statement said. “We are committed to the health and safety of our community and will continue to put that first as we prepare for any possible disruption.”

Current estimates from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers said that in late October, saltwater could reach New Orleans water intakes on the Mississippi River. 

Because of the drought and lack of rain in the forecast, officials are working to find other ways to stop the saltwater intrusion.

On Sunday, the Corps started raising the underwater sill that was installed in July to ​help delay the saltwater. This construction is set to slow down the saltwater by 10 to 15 days.

Mayor LaToya Cantrell signed an Emergency Declaration on Sept. 22, which allows city agencies to “thoroughly prepare for and respond to any impending impacts.” It also allows for state and federal agencies to distribute resources if necessary.

Governor John Bel Edwards has also requested President Joe Biden declare a state of emergency in Louisiana.