Workers in rural Utah are working tirelessly to stabilize the Panguitch Lake Dam after a 60-foot crack opened up. Officials have reassured residents that the dam is not in immediate danger of breaking, but have advised them to be prepared for evacuation if conditions worsen. The reservoir is being lowered to below the affected area, which is expected to take several days. Boulders are being placed over nearly 45 feet of the crack to prevent further damage.
The crack in the dam was discovered during an inspection on Monday night, and state officials informed the public the following day. Residents of Panguitch, a town with 1,800 people located downstream, are being updated about the situation and are preparing for a potential evacuation. Water is being released from the reservoir at a rate of 260 cubic feet per second to lower the water level below the crack. Large rocks are being brought in to support the downstream side of the dam.
The top portion of the dam, where the crack occurred, was added in the 1930s and 1940s, with no previous concerns about its structural integrity. State officials have classified the situation as a level 2 breach risk, indicating a potential for dam failure. Efforts are focused on drawing down the reservoir, preventing ice from building up on the dam, and reinforcing the downstream side. Fortunately, no rainfall is expected until Saturday, which may help in stabilizing the situation.
An ice sheet on the reservoir was responsible for causing the crack in the dam, as it pushed against the structure, leading to a tilt downstream and water entering the reservoir. Workers have made cuts in the ice sheet to relieve pressure on the dam, causing the top to tilt back and away from the structure. A community meeting was scheduled to update residents about the situation, with concerns also raised for another town, Circleville, which is downstream but faces a lower risk.
State and local officials are collaborating to address the issue and keep residents informed about developments. The Utah Division of Water Rights is leading efforts to stabilize the dam and prevent a potential breach. The community meeting in Panguitch aimed to address questions and concerns from residents who may be affected by the situation. As efforts continue to reinforce the dam and lower the water level, officials are cautiously optimistic about the progress being made in addressing the threat posed by the crack in the Panguitch Lake Dam.
