Heavy rainfall in North Carolina forces evacuation due to potential dam failure

The Lake Lure Dam in western North Carolina overtopped after Hurricane Helene inundated the area, prompting evacuations and warnings of potential failure. The Walters Dam, less than 100 miles away, also raised concern in Newport, Tennessee. Lake Lure officials warned that a potential failure could flood downstream communities and even impact towns in South Carolina. The 124-foot tall hydroelectric dam is operated by the town of Lake Lure and its structural supports were compromised during the storm. The area has been experiencing extreme rainfall for several days. The dam is classified as a “high” hazard dam according to the National Inventory of Dams and was described as in “fair” condition as of a March 2023 inspection. The town of Lake Lure has been working to replace the aging dam, receiving grants to help with the project. An emergency preparedness feature was being installed to lower the lake before a storm. Confusion reigned in Newport, Tennessee, after a false alarm was issued regarding the Walters Dam, but the town remained at risk of flooding. This incident highlights the aging infrastructure of dams in the U.S. and the need for costly restoration to protect against intense rainfall and growing populations in inundation zones.

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