Rainbow (Pa-460)
Key Takeaway
Rainbow (Pa-460) is classified as high hazard in Pennsylvania. It was completed in 1964 and is 62 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 | 40 ft (taller than 77.2% in PA) |
| Dam Length | 420 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 850 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 30 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 4 acres |
| Drainage Area | 8 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1964 (62 years old) |
| NID ID | PA00177 |
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
CITY OF MEADVILLE
Local Government
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Low Hazard 10 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Rainbow (Pa-460)?
Rainbow (Pa-460) 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 Rainbow (Pa-460)?
Rainbow (Pa-460) is owned by CITY OF MEADVILLE (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Rainbow (Pa-460) built?
Rainbow (Pa-460) was completed in 1964, making it 62 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 Rainbow (Pa-460)?
Rainbow (Pa-460) serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Rainbow (Pa-460)?
Rainbow (Pa-460) has a dam height of 40 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 Rainbow (Pa-460) last inspected?
Rainbow (Pa-460) was last inspected on October 16, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.