Breaking News - Tropical Storm Hits Oklahoma, Again! Unique Repair Challenges at Caddo Creek Site 27

摘要

Oklahoma is home to over 2100 Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) assisted upstream flood control dams, more than any other state in the nation. When extreme storm events occur, Oklahoman's can feel comfortable knowing that these dams will prevent many devastating floods. Typically, these extreme events occur as springtime thunderstorms; however, four named tropical storms or remnants of such storms hit the main body of the state, which is over 300 miles from the coast, in the last eight years. The most notable storms that hit Oklahoma include Erin in 2007 and Bill in 2015. Tropical systems typically bring heavier rainfall amounts and for longer durations than do the thunderstorms which are more common in Oklahoma. The combination of these factors can pressure the flood control dam's design capacity. While most dams performed as designed during these tropical events and without major damage, Caddo Creek Site 27 took a direct hit from Bill. While the dam held, the auxiliary spillway received severe damage.