The Rapidan Dam, built in 1910, is located on the Blue Earth River in Minnesota.
As southern Minnesota battles an onslaught of rain and severe flooding, the fate of the Rapidan Dam hangs in the balance, with officials saying the dam is in "imminent failure condition."
The Blue Earth County Sheriff's Office reported the dam was in precarious standing amid the overflow of the river, which has caused "erosion and slope-cutting" to the dam as well as a buildup of debris in the area.The sheriff's office reported a "partial failure" of the dam on the west abutment on Monday.
An Xcel Energy substation, which supplies power to 600 customers, was swept downriver during the overflow Monday, according to the company.
In April 2023, the National Inventory of Dams gave Rapidan Dam a "poor condition" rating with the hazard potential classification as "significant."Minnesota has faced over 18 inches of rain over the last few weeks, affecting 40 counties, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz said during a press conference Monday, warning forecasts for more rain could lead to further damage.
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Rapidan Dam in Minnesota is in 'imminent failure condition,' officials warnDoha Madani is a senior breaking news reporter for NBC News. Pronouns: she/her.
Read more »
Minnesota’s Rapidan Dam at risk of failing as floods hit MidwestThe swollen Blue Earth River washed out part of the dam near the town of Mankato. Officials said the river could rise another two feet if the dam fails.
Read more »
Aerial images show raging water flowing around Rapidan Dam in southern MinnesotaNew aerial images from Tuesday morning show strong water continuing to rush around the breached dam in southern Minnesota.
Read more »
Midwest flooding kills 2 with more rain possible; Minnesota's Rapidan Dam partially collapsesThe Rapidan Dam near Mankato, Minnesota, risked 'imminent failure' after flooding of the Blue Earth River, officials warned.
Read more »
After losing home, family hopes for historic café’s survival as Rapidan Dam collapse loomsRaquel Coronell Uribe is a breaking news reporter.
Read more »
Live updates: Rapidan Dam suffers partial failure, home in dangerThe Rapidan Dam in south central Minnesota is in imminent failure condition with accumulating debris and flooding along the Blue Earth River. Officials will provide an update Tuesday morning.
Read more »