The Rapidan Dam in Blue Earth County, Minnesota, is in imminent failure condition, prompting the evacuation of nearby residents as water levels continue to rise.
The Rapidan Dam in Blue Earth County, Minnesota, is in imminent danger of failing, putting thousands of nearby residents on high alert. Water levels have been rising steadily, and debris has accumulated at the base of the dam, increasing the risk of collapse.
Emergency officials have issued evacuation orders for residents downstream of the dam, and are urging everyone in the affected area to take immediate action to protect themselves and their property. Blue Earth County Emergency Management is closely monitoring the situation, and is working with state and federal agencies to coordinate response efforts.
Rapidan Dam Failure Imminent, Residents on High Alert
The situation is developing rapidly, and officials are not yet sure whether the dam will completely fail or remain intact. However, they have determined that it is necessary to issue evacuation orders as a precaution. The dam is currently intact, but officials say that it could fail at any time.
The Rapidan Dam is a concrete gravity dam that was built in 1910. It is 1,050 feet long and 45 feet high. The dam impounds the Rapidan River, creating Lake Mankato.
Rapidan Dam Failure Imminent, Residents on High Alert
The dam has been under scrutiny for years due to its structural integrity. In 2018, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) issued a report that found that the dam was in "poor" condition and was at risk of failure. The DNR recommended that the dam be repaired or replaced.
The Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) has closed all exit and entrance ramps on Highway 169 at Lookout Drive in Mankato and North Mankato. The closures are expected to remain in place until the situation is resolved. The National Weather Service has also issued a Flash Flood Warning for Blue Earth County until 4:30 p.m. on Monday.
Rapidan Dam Failure Imminent, Residents on High Alert
Governor Tim Walz has activated the Minnesota National Guard to assist with response efforts. The National Guard is deploying personnel and equipment to the area to help with evacuations and other emergency operations.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is also providing assistance to Blue Earth County. FEMA is deploying personnel to the area to help with coordination and damage assessment.
Residents in the affected area are urged to stay informed about the situation and to follow the instructions of local officials. For the latest information, residents can visit the Blue Earth County Emergency Management website or the Minnesota Department of Public Safety website.
