Dam Failure

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South Carolina has relatively few natural ponds and lakes. Virtually all ponds and lakes in the state were created by the construction of a dam. There are estimates of over 10,000 man-made dams in South Carolina, but the actual number may be as high as 50,000. Most dams fall below the state's regulatory size threshold. Learn more through the South Carolina Department of Environmental Services (SCDES) Dam Safety Program.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers maintains a nationwide inventory of more than 90,000 state-regulated and federally owned or regulated dams through its National Inventory of Dams.

Before a Dam Failure
  • Know your risk. Determine if you live downstream from a high- or significant-hazard dam.
  • Understand dam safety plans. Dam owners maintain Emergency Action Plans (EAPs) outlining warning procedures and actions to reduce property damage and loss of life. Contact the dam owner with questions.
  • Know your evacuation route. Check whether your property is in a dam breach inundation zone and view dam locations and classifications at South Carolina Dam Safety GIS.
  • Review your insurance. Most homeowners and renters policies do not cover flood damage. Flood insurance typically has a 30-day waiting period.

 

During a Dam Failure
  • If ordered to evacuate, secure your home if time allows. Move essential items upstairs, bring in outdoor furniture, and turn off utilities if instructed. Never touch electrical equipment while wet or standing in water.
  • Never walk through moving water. Just 6 inches can knock you down.
  • Never drive through flooded areas.
After a Dam Failure
  • Listen for updates on whether the community water supply is safe to drink.
  • Avoid floodwaters, which may contain sewage, chemicals, or electrical hazards.
  • Watch for damaged roads, bridges, and other structures, even after water recedes.
  • Stay away from downed power lines and report them to your utility provider.
  • Use caution when entering buildings due to possible structural damage.
  • Clean and disinfect anything exposed to floodwater.
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