Loyalhanna Dam, also known as Loyalhanna Lake, is a gravity dam located in Westmoreland, Pennsylvania, along the Loyalhanna Creek.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1942 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, the primary purpose of this dam is flood risk reduction, with additional purposes including recreation. The dam stands at a structural height of 120 feet, with a hydraulic height of 114 feet, and a length of 960 feet. It has a maximum storage capacity of 127,556 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 2,000 acre-feet.
The dam is equipped with a controlled spillway and a variety of outlet gates to manage water levels. It has a high hazard potential and is subject to regular inspections and risk management measures. The US Army Corps of Engineers works diligently to monitor the dam's condition, prioritize risk-reducing activities, and collaborate with local emergency managers and the public to ensure preparedness in case of a dam-related emergency. Despite its flood risk reduction capabilities, the dam cannot eliminate all risks of flooding, especially during severe weather events that may overwhelm its capacity.
In summary, Loyalhanna Dam serves as a critical infrastructure for flood risk reduction in the region. With a focus on safety and risk management, the US Army Corps of Engineers implements measures to ensure the dam's structural integrity and collaborates with local stakeholders to enhance emergency preparedness. As a key component of water resource management, Loyalhanna Dam plays a vital role in protecting communities downstream from potential flooding events.
Year Completed |
1942 |
Dam Length |
960 |
River Or Stream |
LOYALHANNA CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
210 |
Hydraulic Height |
114 |
Drainage Area |
290 |
Nid Storage |
127556 |
Structural Height |
120 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 9, Valve - 1, Vertical Lift - 5 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
120 |
Loyalhanna Creek At Loyalhanna Dam
|
110cfs |
Conemaugh River At Tunnelton
|
1060cfs |
Kiskiminetas River At Vandergrift
|
1230cfs |
Loyalhanna Creek At Kingston
|
68cfs |
Blacklick Creek At Josephine
|
90cfs |
Crooked Creek At Idaho
|
43cfs |