A dam in Utah is currently undergoing emergency repairs after a significant crack opened this week, leading to a surge of water flow. The Panguitch Lake Dam in southwest Utah has developed a 60-foot-long crack, causing excess water to flood a nearby creek and posing a threat to the towns of Panguitch and Circleville.
The crack was discovered during an inspection on Monday night and was made public the following day. To address the issue, dam operators are draining the reservoir at a rate of 260 cubic feet per second to lower the water level below the crack area. Additionally, workers have placed rocks over approximately 45 feet of the crack on the downstream side to support its structural integrity.
While the dam is considered to be structurally stable, state officials have advised nearby residents to stay prepared for a potential evacuation. Utah Division of Water Rights assistant state engineer Everett Taylor expressed optimism about the progress made in addressing the situation, stating that while the emergency situation is not entirely averted, significant headway has been achieved.
In the event of a hypothetical evacuation, sirens would be used to alert residents, and law enforcement would conduct a coordinated door-to-door campaign. Utah Highway Patrol Sgt. Jacob Cox emphasized that there would be ample time for an orderly evacuation if needed, with an estimated two-hour window before potential floodwaters reach the town.
Panguitch Mayor Kim Soper reassured the community, stating that despite the challenges posed by the dam crack, they have successfully navigated emergencies before and will overcome this situation as well.
