Cyclone Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Cyclone, located in Apache, Arizona, is a federal-owned dam managed by the Bureau of Indian Affairs.


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Summary

Built in 1965 for recreational purposes, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 52 feet with a length of 390 feet. It has a storage capacity of 775 acre-feet and is situated on the SAND CREEK river/stream.

With a hazard potential rated as high and a risk assessment indicating very high risk, Cyclone poses significant challenges in terms of emergency preparedness and risk management. While the dam's condition assessment is currently not available, regular inspections are conducted every five years to ensure its safety and integrity. Despite the lack of certain data points, the dam's primary purpose for recreation highlights its importance in providing water resources for the surrounding area.

As climate enthusiasts, understanding the intricacies of Cyclone's design and operation can shed light on the critical role it plays in water resource management in Arizona. With a controlled spillway and a high-risk designation, it is evident that the dam requires vigilant monitoring and maintenance to mitigate potential risks. The involvement of the Bureau of Indian Affairs in all aspects of the dam's ownership, funding, design, construction, regulation, inspection, and operation underscores the federal government's commitment to managing water resources effectively in the region.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

390

River Or Stream

SAND CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

775

Structural Height

52

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

52
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.