Cerrillos Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Ana Mariaâ Ii Dam Ana Mariaâ V Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Cerrillos Dam, also known as Lago Cerrillos, is a significant water resource structure located in Ponce, Puerto Rico.
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Summary
Managed by the Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority (PREPA), this rockfill dam was completed in 1992 and stands at a height of 323 feet, with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction. It has a storage capacity of 58,750 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 30,835 acre-feet and a surface area of 350 acres.
The dam is situated on the Cerrillos River and serves multiple purposes, including flood risk reduction, recreation, and water supply for the surrounding area. With a drainage area of 17.5 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 75,280 cubic feet per second, Cerrillos Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and mitigating flood risks in the region. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2021 deemed it satisfactory, with regular inspections and enforcement ensuring its safety and functionality.
As a key infrastructure project designed by the US Army Corps of Engineers, Jacksonville District, Cerrillos Dam is a testament to effective water resource management and climate adaptation efforts in Puerto Rico. With its strategic location, impressive height, and significant storage capacity, the dam continues to play a vital role in safeguarding communities, supporting recreational activities, and ensuring a reliable water supply for the region. Its history, design, and operational features make it a captivating subject for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in sustainable infrastructure development.
Year Completed |
1992 |
Dam Length |
1555 |
Dam Height |
323 |
River Or Stream |
CERRILLOS RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Rockfill |
Surface Area |
350 |
Hydraulic Height |
299.6 |
Drainage Area |
17.5 |
Nid Storage |
58750 |
Structural Height |
323 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
323 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
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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.
Cerrillos Dam