Imminent Failure of Rapidan Dam in Blue Earth County, Minnesota
The Rapidan Dam in Blue Earth County, Minnesota, is currently under a state of imminent failure, according to updates posted on the official Facebook page of the county government. The situation arose following reports of accumulating debris at the dam since Sunday, prompting continuous monitoring efforts by Blue Earth County Public Works, Emergency Management, and Sheriffs Offices.
Uncertainty and Precautions
In a recent Facebook announcement, Blue Earth County Emergency Management conveyed uncertainty regarding the dam’s stability, stating, “We do not know if it will totally fail or if it will remain in place.” This uncertainty prompted authorities to issue notifications to downstream residents and notify relevant regulatory agencies and local authorities.
Impact and Infrastructure Concerns
The western side of the dam has been significantly eroded by the river, exacerbated by additional debris introduced by Xcel Energy and county infrastructure. The accumulation of debris has also led to reported power outages, with ongoing collaboration between local agencies and Xcel Energy to mitigate the impacts.
Bridge Monitoring and Potential Closures
Officials have underscored the importance of monitoring the County Road 33 and County Road 90 bridges for potential debris movement downstream, indicating that closures may be necessary to ensure public safety.
Dam Specifications
The Rapidan Dam, which dates back to its construction between 1908 and 1910, spans approximately 475 feet in length and stands about 87 feet from the top to the stream bed, as detailed on the Blue Earth County government website.
Evacuation Measures
While the dam is currently reported to be intact, precautions have been implemented, and individuals deemed at immediate risk have been notified. As of now, there is no evacuation order in effect for Blue Earth County residents.
Regional Flood Challenges
Meanwhile, the region faces ongoing challenges from severe flooding caused by recent heavy rains across the northern and central Plains. The National Weather Service has forecasted additional scattered showers and more organized thunderstorms later in the week, further complicating recovery efforts in flood-stricken communities.
Impact of Heavy Rains
Recent rainfall totals have exceeded monthly averages in a matter of days, with Sioux Falls, South Dakota, receiving 6.33 inches of rain from Thursday to Saturday alone. AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Alex Sosnowski described the impact, stating, “So much rain has fallen… that multiple rivers are on the rampage,” affecting areas from southwestern Minnesota to northeastern Nebraska, including northwestern Iowa and southeastern South Dakota.
North Mankato’s Flood Emergency
In response to escalating flood risks, North Mankato, Minnesota, declared a flood emergency early Monday morning. City officials are actively constructing temporary earth wall levees, particularly at the intersection of Lookout Drive and Lee Boulevard, to preempt potential impacts from the Rapidan Dam’s failure and safeguard the city. As river levels continue to rise rapidly, city staff remain vigilant, closely monitoring safety conditions and preparing for additional road closures as needed.
