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The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has changed Prado Dam’s risk characterization from moderate urgency to high urgency, based on a recent assessment.
More than 1.4 million people live and work in 29 cities downstream of Prado Dam, with more than $61 billion in property.
A site specific evaluation was conducted in May to assess conditions associated with the dam as part of a periodic review of its performance.
Risk factors identified indicate the potential for poor spillway performance in the event of a significant flood event, according to the review.
The dam, which is typically dry, has historically operated without incident. It has not experienced a large enough storm to cause water to flow over the spillway, according to the Corps.
The Corps is working with a national team to reduce the risks associated with the spillway. The agency is implementing interim risk-reduction measures. Modification of the existing spillway is expected to begin in 2021.
