Addicks Dam, located in Harris County, Texas, is a crucial piece of infrastructure designed for flood risk reduction along the South Mayde Creek. Built in 1948 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, this gravity dam stands at 48.5 feet tall and has a storage capacity of 200,800 acre-feet to mitigate the impact of severe storm events. However, despite its effectiveness in reducing flood risks, Addicks Dam still faces a high hazard potential, especially during extreme weather events like Hurricane Harvey in 2017.
To manage and reduce these risks, the USACE closely monitors and operates the dam in coordination with various agencies, including the National Weather Service and the Harris County Flood Control District. Recent risk assessments have classified the dam as high-risk, prompting the construction of new outlet structures and ongoing rehabilitation efforts to enhance its safety and stability. Additionally, the Buffalo Bayou Resiliency and Tributary Study is evaluating further measures to improve flood risk management upstream and downstream of the dam. Residents are advised to stay informed about potential risks and evacuation procedures through the USACE's Emergency Action Plans and resources.