Pumping has reduced the risk of a dam collapse in the Adelaide Hills, allowing residents of a nearby town to return to their homes.
South Australia's State Emergency Service says water levels in the 10 megalitre structure at Echunga have dropped by more than two metres, relieving pressure on the dam walls.
Concerns were raised on Tuesday afternoon after signs of "slippage" along the main dam wall.
Fears of a major collapse grew that night with an emergency warning issued early on Wednesday.
The SES said up to 40 houses would be flooded with at least ankle-deep water if the dam gave way.
Pumps were brought in to reduce water levels and a spillway was cut to allow water to drain away safely.
Some roads at Echunga remain closed but residents were advised early on Thursday the risk of a collapse had reduced and they could return to their homes.
The SES said engineers and swift water rescue officers remained at the scene.
The dam was last considered full in 2016 after heavy storms.
Recent rains across the Adelaide Hills caused major runoff, raising water levels.
