Patillas Dam
Key Takeaway
Patillas Dam is classified as high hazard in Puerto Rico. It was completed in 1976 and is 50 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 | 127 ft (taller than 66.7% in PR) |
| Dam Length | 1,067 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 17.1K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 14.3K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 367 acres |
| Drainage Area | 25 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 79,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1976 (50 years old) |
| NID ID | PR00023 |
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
COMMONWEALTH OF PUERTO RICO
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Patillas Dam?
Patillas 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 Patillas Dam?
Patillas Dam is owned by COMMONWEALTH OF PUERTO RICO (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Patillas Dam built?
Patillas Dam was completed in 1976, making it 50 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 Patillas Dam?
Patillas Dam serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Irrigation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Patillas Dam?
Patillas Dam has a dam height of 127 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 Patillas Dam last inspected?
Patillas Dam was last inspected on March 5, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.