Roanoke Rapids Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Roanoke Rapids, located in Northampton County, North Carolina, is a gravity dam constructed in 1955 by Stone & Webster, primarily for hydroelectric purposes.


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Summary

This impressive structure stands at a height of 72 feet and has a hydraulic height of 62 feet, with a storage capacity of 80,690 acre-feet. The dam spans a length of 3050 feet and features a controlled spillway with a width of 1810 feet.

With a hazard potential rated as high and a risk assessment indicating a very high risk level, Roanoke Rapids is closely monitored by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. The dam has 24 Tainter radial gates for water control and is inspected annually to ensure safety standards are met. Despite its high risk, the dam does not fall under state jurisdiction or regulation, highlighting its federal oversight and operations.

Roanoke Rapids serves multiple purposes, including fish and wildlife habitat, recreation, and water supply. It boasts a surface area of 4600 acres and is situated on the Roanoke River, contributing to the overall water resource management in the region. With its significant impact on the local environment and community, Roanoke Rapids stands as a crucial hydroelectric infrastructure in North Carolina's water landscape.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

3050

Dam Height

72

River Or Stream

Roanoke

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

4600

Hydraulic Height

62

Drainage Area

8400

Nid Storage

80690

Structural Height

72

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial) - 24

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

72
       
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.