Hurricane Lake Dam, located in Nelson, Kentucky, along Wilson Creek, was completed in 1950 for recreational purposes.
Wind
Humidity
The earth dam stands at 45 feet high and spans 490 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 535 acre-feet with a normal storage level of 406.6 acre-feet. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled with a width of 28 feet, making it a significant hazard with a fair condition assessment.
Managed by a private owner, the dam is regulated by the Kentucky Division of Water, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place. While the dam's risk assessment is moderate, with a hazard potential rating of significant, there is a need for ongoing risk management measures and emergency action preparedness to ensure the safety of the surrounding community and environment. With its captivating location and purpose, Hurricane Lake Dam remains a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and study the intersection of human infrastructure and natural forces.
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
490 |
Dam Height |
45 |
River Or Stream |
WILSON CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
40 |
Drainage Area |
1.03 |
Nid Storage |
535 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
45 |