Summary
Built in 1954, it serves a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation and water supply. The dam is a gravity type structure with a height of 95 feet and a length of 728 feet, holding a maximum storage capacity of 30,000 acre-feet.
Managed by the Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority (PREPA), the Loiza Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by state agencies to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam has a controlled spillway with a width of 368 feet and can discharge up to 312,000 cubic feet per second. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam is in satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in March 2022.
With its strategic location on the Grande de Loiza River, the Loiza Dam plays a crucial role in water management and energy production in Puerto Rico. As a key piece of infrastructure, it continues to be monitored and maintained to mitigate risks and ensure the safety of surrounding communities. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Loiza Dam stands as both a symbol of resilience and a vital component of sustainable water management in the region.
Year Completed |
1954 |
Dam Length |
728 |
Dam Height |
95 |
River Or Stream |
GRANDE DE LOIZA RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
175 |
Hydraulic Height |
92 |
Drainage Area |
207 |
Nid Storage |
30000 |
Structural Height |
95 |
Outlet Gates |
Tainter (radial), Vertical Lift |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
95 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Loiza Dam