The recent flooding induced by Hurricane Helene has put a spotlight on the risk of dam failure in the United States due to increased precipitation levels linked to climate change. Particularly under threat were multiple dams, including Nolichucky Dam in Tennessee and Walters and Lake Lure dams in North Carolina. These incidents highlight the urgent need for a comprehensive evaluation of the nation’s dam infrastructure in the face of evolving climate conditions. The increasing frequency and intensity of hurricanes, driven by climate change, exacerbate the vulnerability of these structures, demanding immediate attention from policymakers, engineers, and environmentalists alike.

One of the key challenges is the aging infrastructure of these dams. On average, U.S. dams are around 60 years old. With over 92,000 dams nationwide, almost 20% of these have been classified as having “high hazard potential”. This means that their failure could lead to significant loss of life or property. The implications of such failures extend beyond immediate physical destruction, potentially disrupting local economies, displacing communities, and causing long-term environmental damage. This situation necessitates a proactive approach to dam safety management, incorporating both preventive measures and emergency response strategies to mitigate the risks associated with aging infrastructure.

The problem is further compounded by the fact that only 3% of these dams are federally controlled. According to the Association of State Dam Safety Officials, it is estimated that a staggering $75.7 billion is needed to rehabilitate nonfederal dams. This financial burden poses a significant challenge for state and local governments, which often lack the necessary resources to address the extensive maintenance and upgrades required. The fragmented nature of dam ownership and regulation in the U.S. complicates efforts to implement standardized safety protocols and secure funding for essential rehabilitation projects. Collaborative efforts at the federal, state, and local levels are crucial to overcoming these obstacles and ensuring the safety of communities living downstream.

Adding to this precarious situation, climate change-induced intense rainstorms pose a significant risk to dams. This is particularly true for earthen dams, which form the majority in the U.S. Excessive rainwater can lead to overtopping that erodes the dam and eventually results in structural failure. The vulnerability of earthen dams to such weather events underscores the need for comprehensive risk assessments and the development of adaptive management strategies. These strategies should include regular inspections, maintenance, and the incorporation of climate projections into dam design and operation to enhance their resilience against future climate impacts.

Changing global weather patterns are leading to more extreme and frequent weather events, such as hurricanes. These events challenge the safety of dams due to the record levels of water they have to manage. Studies from IHE Delft, the Institute for Water Education, suggest that climate change is increasing the frequency and severity of these extreme weather events, putting the world’s over 70,000 dams at a higher risk of failure. The global nature of this issue calls for international cooperation and knowledge-sharing to develop innovative solutions and best practices in dam safety and climate adaptation. By learning from successful case studies and leveraging advancements in technology and engineering, countries can enhance their capacity to manage the risks associated with aging dam infrastructure in a changing climate.

The catastrophic flooding caused by the collapse of Arbaat Dam in Sudan and the burst of Alua Dam in Nigeria, which led to the death of 37 people, serve as stark reminders of the risks of dam failure due to extreme weather events. These tragedies highlight the human cost of inadequate dam safety measures and the urgent need for comprehensive risk management strategies. Lessons learned from these incidents should inform global efforts to improve dam safety, emphasizing the importance of early warning systems, emergency preparedness, and community engagement to minimize the impact of potential dam failures on vulnerable populations.

Addressing these risks will require significant investment and time. Potential solutions include the adaptation of dams, such as increasing the capacity of spillways, and updating precipitation frequency data to account for climate change. In the U.S., for instance, NOAA is implementing Atlas 15 to account for these changes. However, these solutions are costly and slow to implement. As climate change continues to exert pressure on our aging dams, the question remains: can we act fast enough to prevent catastrophic failures? The urgency of this challenge demands a coordinated response from all stakeholders, including government agencies, private sector partners, and civil society organizations, to prioritize dam safety and climate resilience as integral components of national infrastructure planning and development.

Science4Data is committed to cut through greenwashing and measure real impact. Join the journey to a sustainable future. Your actions matter. By supporting evidence-based approaches and fostering collaboration among diverse stakeholders, Science4Data aims to drive meaningful progress in addressing the complex challenges posed by aging dams and climate change. Through research, innovation, and advocacy, we can work towards a future where dam infrastructure is resilient, safe, and capable of withstanding the impacts of a changing climate.

The State of Aging Dams in the US

The United States is home to a vast network of dams, many of which are reaching or have surpassed their intended lifespan. The average age of dams in the country is approximately 60 years, and this aging infrastructure poses significant safety risks. With over 92,000 dams across the nation, nearly 20% have been categorized as having “high hazard potential,” meaning their failure could result in substantial loss of life or property. This aging infrastructure requires urgent attention and investment to ensure the safety and functionality of these critical structures. The need for comprehensive assessments and targeted interventions is paramount to address the vulnerabilities associated with aging dams and to safeguard communities and ecosystems that depend on their continued operation.

The Impact of Climate Change on Dams

Climate change is exacerbating the challenges faced by aging dams. Increased precipitation levels, more frequent and intense storms, and shifting weather patterns are placing additional stress on these structures. Earthen dams, which make up the majority in the U.S., are particularly vulnerable to the effects of climate change. Excessive rainfall can lead to overtopping, erosion, and eventual structural failure. As global weather patterns continue to change, the risk of dam failure due to **climate-related factors becomes more pronounced. Addressing these risks requires a proactive approach that integrates climate science into dam management practices, ensuring that infrastructure is designed and operated to withstand the impacts of a changing climate.

Risks and Consequences of Dam Failure

The failure of a dam can have catastrophic consequences, both in terms of human lives and property damage. The collapse of Arbaat Dam in Sudan and the burst of Alua Dam in Nigeria serve as stark reminders of the potential devastation caused by dam failures. In the U.S., the failure of a high hazard potential dam could result in significant loss of life, displacement of communities, and extensive economic damage. Addressing these risks is imperative to prevent such disasters and protect vulnerable populations. Comprehensive emergency response plans, coupled with robust public awareness and education campaigns, are essential components of a holistic approach to dam safety and disaster risk reduction.

Strengthening and Upgrading Aging Dams

To mitigate the risks associated with aging dams, significant investment is required to strengthen and upgrade these structures. Potential solutions include increasing the capacity of spillways, reinforcing dam foundations, and implementing advanced monitoring technologies. Additionally, updating precipitation frequency data to account for climate change is crucial for accurate risk assessment and management. While these solutions are costly and time-consuming, they are essential to ensure the safety and resilience of dams in the face of evolving climate challenges. By prioritizing investments in dam safety and resilience, we can create a more secure and sustainable future for communities that rely on these critical infrastructure assets.

Addressing the Challenge through Research and Data

Research and data play a vital role in addressing the challenges posed by aging dams and climate change. Organizations like Science4Data are committed to cutting through greenwashing and providing accurate, actionable insights to drive sustainable solutions. By leveraging data-driven approaches, stakeholders can make informed decisions regarding dam safety, climate adaptation, and resource allocation. Collaborative efforts between government agencies, research institutions, and industry experts are essential to develop effective strategies and ensure a sustainable future for our aging dam infrastructure. Through the integration of cutting-edge technologies and innovative methodologies, we can enhance our understanding of dam vulnerabilities and develop targeted interventions to mitigate the risks posed by climate change and aging infrastructure.

Science4Data is committed to cut through greenwashing and measure real impact. Join the journey to a sustainable future. Your actions matter.