Dam or Levee Failures

A dam or levee failure is a catastrophic event in which a water containment structure breaches or collapses, releasing vast amounts of water into surrounding areas. These failures may result from:

  • Extreme rainfall or flooding
  • Earthquakes or landslides
  • Poor maintenance or structural flaws
  • Sabotage or intentional destruction

Consequences can include flash flooding, massive property damage, loss of life, agricultural destruction, and long-term displacement. Floodwaters from a dam or levee break move faster and with greater force than typical floods, making evacuation time extremely limited.

At-Risk Areas

  • Downstream towns and cities near large dams or reservoirs
  • River systems with aging levees or earthen embankments
  • Flat agricultural plains prone to levee overflow during storms

Preparedness Tips

Know your risk

  • Find out if your home, school, or workplace is downstream of a dam or levee
    • Use the National Inventory of Dams (NID): nid.sec.usace.army.mil
  • Sign up for local flood or dam failure alerts from your county or state
  • Learn and rehearse evacuation routes—floodwaters can arrive within minutes

Home preparedness

  • Elevate critical appliances and electronics above potential flood levels
  • Keep a go-bag near exits with clothes, water, ID, medication
  • Store important documents in waterproof containers or digital backups
  • Prepare sandbags or barriers if your area floods easily

During a Dam or Levee Failure

If warning is issued

  • Evacuate immediately—do not wait for visual confirmation
  • Move to high ground as quickly and safely as possible
  • Avoid driving through water-covered roads
  • Bring only essentials; time is critical

If no warning was issued

  • If you hear a roar or feel ground vibration, act fast
  • Climb to the highest point available—rooftops, upper floors, nearby hills
  • Never try to swim or drive through fast-moving water

After the Flood

  • Do not return until authorities say it’s safe
  • Be cautious of unstable structures, downed power lines, and contamination
  • Wear boots and gloves when cleaning up
  • Photograph damage for insurance claims

Key Resources

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