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El Paso Water Reports Escalating Risk at Cement Lake Dam

Engineers say the reservoir may need to be lowered by up to 10 feet to relieve pressure on the structure.

Overview

  • EPWater says engineers observed slow slope failures, slight embankment movement and seepage that point to a possible breach.
  • The utility moved staff to higher ground out of caution as the local emergency operations center activated to support the response.
  • Crews have pumped out about 30 inches of water and officials now estimate a drop of up to 10 feet could improve stability.
  • EPWater says it is working with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and bringing in more pumps to speed the drawdown.
  • Roads near Cement Lake remain closed as a precaution and officials advise residents to follow detours and official updates, noting no impact to drinking water or the Rio Grande.