Loiza Dam
Key Takeaway
Loiza Dam is classified as high hazard in Puerto Rico. It was completed in 1954 and is 72 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. 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 | 95 ft (taller than 44.4% in PR) |
| Dam Length | 728 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 30.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 23.5K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 175 acres |
| Drainage Area | 207 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 312,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1954 (72 years old) |
| NID ID | PR00024 |
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
PUERTO RICO AQUEDUCT AND SEWER AUTHORITY
Public Utility
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Loiza Dam?
Loiza 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 Loiza Dam?
Loiza Dam is owned by PUERTO RICO AQUEDUCT AND SEWER AUTHORITY (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Loiza Dam built?
Loiza Dam was completed in 1954, making it 72 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 Loiza Dam?
Loiza Dam serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Loiza Dam?
Loiza Dam has a dam height of 95 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 Loiza Dam last inspected?
Loiza Dam was last inspected on March 17, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.