Cerrillos Dam
Key Takeaway
Cerrillos Dam is classified as high hazard in Puerto Rico. It was completed in 1992 and is 34 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 323 ft (taller than 97.2% in PR) |
| Dam Length | 1,555 ft |
| Dam Type | Rockfill |
| Max Storage | 58.8K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 30.8K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 350 acres |
| Drainage Area | 18 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 75,280 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1992 (34 years old) |
| NID ID | PR82201 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
NATURAL RESOURCES AND ENVIRONMENTAL DEPT.
State Government
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High Hazard 235 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Cerrillos Dam?
Cerrillos Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Cerrillos Dam?
Cerrillos Dam is owned by NATURAL RESOURCES AND ENVIRONMENTAL DEPT. (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Cerrillos Dam built?
Cerrillos Dam was completed in 1992, making it 34 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Cerrillos Dam?
Cerrillos Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Recreation, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Cerrillos Dam?
Cerrillos Dam has a dam height of 323 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Cerrillos Dam last inspected?
Cerrillos Dam was last inspected on June 16, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.