A dam in southern Minnesota is currently facing an “imminent failure condition” as a result of heavy rains causing major flooding in the Upper Midwest. The Rapidan Dam near Mankato, Minnesota, owned by Blue Earth County, is under close monitoring by local authorities.
Blue Earth County government issued a warning through a Facebook post, alerting downstream residents and regulatory agencies about the potential risk posed by the dam. The county reported that the dam is currently in a critical state, with concerns about a possible total failure.
Emergency management teams, along with workers from Blue Earth County Public Works and the sheriff’s office, are actively monitoring the dam for any signs of further deterioration. The Blue Earth River has already caused damage by carrying debris around the dam and resulting in power outages in the area.
Despite a partial failure on the west abutment of the dam, officials have confirmed that the structure remains intact for now. There are no immediate plans for a mass evacuation, but residents are advised to stay vigilant and prepared for any potential developments.
The Rapidan Dam, constructed in 1910, has the capacity to generate six million watts of hydroelectric power. Located approximately 70 miles southwest of Minneapolis, the dam plays a crucial role in the region’s energy infrastructure.
The Midwest region has been grappling with severe flooding in recent days, leading to a tragic fatality in South Dakota and triggering rescue operations in multiple states. President Joe Biden has approved a disaster declaration for certain areas in Iowa, enabling federal assistance to support relief efforts in the affected communities.
