Rapidan Dam in Minnesota on Brink of Collapse

The Rapidan Dam in Blue Earth County, Minnesota, is in imminent danger of failing, prompting officials to issue a high alert for nearby residents as water levels continue to surge.

The Rapidan Dam in Blue Earth County, Minnesota, has reached an imminent failure condition, triggering a heightened alert for local communities as water levels escalate. Officials from the Blue Earth County Emergency Management department have reached out to residents facing potential flooding, urging them to stay vigilant.

Despite the dam's current stability, no evacuation orders have been mandated for Blue Earth County residents. Authorities, including BEC Public Works, Emergency Management, and the Sheriff's Office, are closely monitoring the situation.

Rapidan Dam in Minnesota on Brink of Collapse

FOX 9 in Minneapolis relayed an alert from BEC, indicating that the extent of the dam's compromise remains uncertain. However, residents downstream have been informed of the critical situation.

The water level at the Rapidan Dam had reached 28 feet by Monday afternoon, according to Mankato Police and Fire. The levee system is designed to sustain a river capacity of 39.5 feet.

Rapidan Dam in Minnesota on Brink of Collapse

Officials estimate a potential 2-foot surge in river levels if the dam fails. Currently, the city of Mankato remains confident in the levee system's resilience and emphasizes that no evacuations are necessary within city limits.

Increased activity by Xcel Energy at Sibley Park has been noted, with 170 employees and approximately 400 pieces of equipment deployed to safeguard a nearby substation.

Rapidan Dam in Minnesota on Brink of Collapse

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, along with emergency response officials, provided an update on the situation on Monday morning. Homeland Security and Emergency Management Director Kristi Rollwagen stated that they are collaborating with local officials to monitor the dam's condition.

Walz acknowledged the longstanding concerns regarding the dam's structural integrity. The National Weather Service has issued a Flash Flood Warning for the county, valid until 4:30 p.m. on Monday.

FOX 9 reported that all exit and entrance ramps on Highway 169 at Lookout Drive in Mankato and North Mankato have been closed to facilitate the construction of an earthen dike, redirecting runoff.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, urging residents to remain informed and vigilant. The integrity of the Rapidan Dam remains a primary concern, as officials work tirelessly to mitigate the potential risks posed by its imminent failure.