Mojave River Dam

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The Mojave River Dam, located in Victorville, California, was completed in 1971 and serves as a crucial flood risk reduction structure along the West Fork Mojave River. Owned and operated by the US Army Corps of Engineers, the dam has a height of 200 feet and a storage capacity of 179,400 acre-feet. Despite its important role in reducing flooding to downstream communities, a 2018 risk assessment classified the dam as "High" risk due to the potential for significant rainfall events to overwhelm the spillway and cause downstream flooding.

In the event of an extreme rainfall event, the dam could face erosion and breach, leading to devastating flooding in communities downstream such as Hesperia, Apple Valley, and Victorville. To manage this risk, the US Army Corps of Engineers is closely monitoring weather forecasts, conducting emergency exercises, and implementing temporary measures to reduce the risk of water flowing over the dam. Additionally, efforts are underway to engage with local communities and schools to enhance flood preparedness and response measures in the event of a breach or significant flooding event.

With the potential for rapid rise in water levels due to local topography and intense storms in the region, it is crucial for residents and authorities in downstream communities to be aware of the risks associated with the Mojave River Dam and take proactive measures for flood preparedness. By working together with federal, state, and local partners, the US Army Corps of Engineers is striving to ensure the safety and resilience of communities along the Mojave River in the face of potential flood events.