The Superdome shows the damage from Hurricane Katrina

The Saints are due to play their first home game of the season on 18 September, but part of the Superdome roof was removed by ferocious winds.

The venue was being used as an emergency shelter by storm refugees.

If the arena cannot be repaired, the Saints could play all their home games in San Antonio or Baton Rouge.

The hurricane has caused widespread devastation since hitting the US Gulf Coast on Monday.

Much of New Orleans is submerged by flood water and there are fears that thousands may have died.

The NFL has donated $1m to relief efforts and a day after the New York Yankees donated $1m, Major League Baseball and its players' association announced they would also contribute $1m.

On 7 September, all 15 teams at home that day will pass the hat among spectators to collect funds for the Red Cross relief effort.

The US Tennis Association, which is currently hosting the US Open, will donate $500,000 from the tournament's proceeds.

Serena Williams has pledged $100 to the fund for each ace she serves for the rest of the year.

The Saints, who have moved their training area to San Antonio, are due to open their season away to the Carolina Panthers on 11 September.

They also spent part of last year training in San Antonio when Hurricane Ivan threatened the region.