Effort seeks to minimize dam failure, improve response capability in affected areas

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Science and Technology Directorate (S&T) has been researching ways to minimize risk from a dam failure while improving response capability of stakeholders.

Officials said the Kentucky Division of Water and S&T’s Flood Apex program are working together to establish a means of monitoring dams and alerting the communities and property owners of potential dangers.

“The breaches during Hurricane Matthew are an example of what we want to be ready for,” Dr. David Alexander, S&T Flood Apex Program director, said. “The right precautions, monitoring and warnings could help us reduce injuries, fatalities and property losses.”

DHS personnel said because the likelihood of a dam failure is expected to be minimal, communities and property owners surrounding dams might easily embrace their land as any other lakeside or oceanside residence, but if the dams were to fail, the volume and force of water could compare to a small tsunami affecting nearby towns and residences.

Officials said 25 dams failed when Hurricane Matthew hit South Carolina in 2016, resulting in significant damage to homes and downstream infrastructure.

That turn of events occurred only a year after 51 state-regulated dams failed in the historic floods of 2015.

Officials said such events have spurred the need for increased awareness of state, local and privately owned dams, and better preparation and risk communication in surrounding communities.