Heavy rain potential underscores need for emergency plans for NC dams

This month’s Atlantic hurricane forecast still predicts an active storm season, which may mean very heavy rains inland. Heavy ongoing downpours from tropical storms and even intense seasonal rains can produce severe stresses on North Carolina dams. More than 800 of those dams classified as “High-Hazard Potential” (HHP) do not have Emergency Action Plans (EAPs) even though a breach could mean the loss of lives as well as extensive property damage. North Carolina statutes do not require that most HHP dams have EAPs, though an EAP can provide a blueprint for the prompt notification and