UPS: Affected areas by Zip Code (Click for larger image)

FedEx: Closeup of New Orleans (Click for larger image)

It is hard to imagine the scope of geographical areas directly affected by Katrina. I have been looking at satellite imagery, lists of cities, Google Earth mashups, and even newspaper illustrations.

Yet, while checking on a shipment, I happened to find that UPS lists affected areas by zip code. If you have a package you are trying to send into Louisiana or Mississippi, UPS knows whether or not they can get it there. FedEx also has an update where you will need to open multiple PDF files to see maps of their disrupted service areas.

Using the zip code list from UPS and plotting it into Microsoft Mappoint came up with this map. This shows where the daily routine (to say the least) of shipping and receiving has been affected. The plot shows disruption across Southern Mississippi, New Orleans, and the Mississippi Delta. An enterprising mathematician could probably figure out percentage of each state knocked out based on these zip codes.

PS: While entering the zip codes into mappoint, I recognized the zip for my "alma mater", Keesler AFB in Biloxi. I salute you pingers and long hairs living in the "triangle."

UPS link to shipping status
FedEx link to shipping status

UPDATE: If you have Microsoft MapPoint installed, click here to download the file for use on your computer.