Emergency Management was made aware of accumulating debris at the Rapidan Dam on Sunday, according to a news release from Blue Earth County. Blue Earth County Public Works, Emergency Management and the Sheriff’s Office’s staff are currently monitoring the Dam.
The river has significantly cut around the west side of the dam. Xcel Energy and County infrastructure has added to the debris in the river. Blue Earth County is aware of power outages and are working with Xcel Energy. The County Road 33 bridge and County Road 90 bridge are being closely monitored for debris passing downstream and may be closed if needed.
The Dam is in imminent failure condition. Blue Earth County does not know if it will totally fail or if it will remain in place, however, it was determined it was necessary to issue this notification to advise downstream residents and the correct regulatory agencies and other local agencies.
Public Works, Emergency Management and Sheriff’s Offices are implementing steps outlined in the Rapidan Dam Emergency Action Plan for Imminent Failure of the Dam, including notification of potentially affected residents, impacted regulatory agencies and other local agencies.