An evacuation notice was lifted for the town of Panguitch in southern Utah after officials were able to release enough water to prevent a total breach of the fissured dam. Nearly 1,800 residents had been on high alert since a 60-foot crack was discovered in the Panguitch Lake Dam on Monday night. Water levels in the reservoir had dropped 8 inches by Friday, alleviating enough pressure on the dam to allow officials to lift the evacuation notice. Residents were urged to remain prepared in case circumstances change.
Lowering the reservoir to below the affected area is expected to take another seven to 10 days, with safety crews continuing to reduce the water level until it is 1 foot below the cracked section for a full assessment of the damage. Residents were urged to remain vigilant through the spring runoff season, as unforeseen circumstances could lead to the reinstatement of the evacuation notice. Major repairs to the fissure will not take place until the end of the runoff season in June due to high water levels preventing construction crews from working effectively.
Over the past week, crews have worked to stabilize the dam, cutting into an ice sheet that had caused the top portion to crack and tilt downstream. The ice sheet has since receded, and the wall is no longer tilting. Safety workers have left necessary equipment on site to act immediately in the event of high winds causing the ice to shift back against the dam. While the dam itself no longer poses an immediate danger to nearby communities, controlled water releases have increased the risk of drowning in the town’s creeks and streams, with residents and visitors urged to avoid fast-flowing water.
The dam was originally built in the late 1800s, with the top portion that cracked added in the 1930s and 1940s. Despite the age of the structure, state officials had not previously identified any concerns regarding its structural integrity. Repairing the dam will not take place until after the spring runoff season, as undoing the stabilizing elements currently in place would create another emergency situation. Officials are working to ensure the safety of the community and are prepared to act quickly if needed.
Residents of Panguitch are being encouraged to remain prepared and vigilant as the situation continues to unfold. While the risk of a complete breach of the dam has decreased, the potential for unforeseen circumstances remains during the spring runoff season. Public safety officials are working to manage the situation effectively, with a focus on ensuring the safety of residents and visitors to the area. As the water levels continue to decrease and the dam stabilization efforts continue, officials will provide updates and guidance to the community to ensure their safety and well-being.
