Thorpe
Key Takeaway
Thorpe is classified as high hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1941 and is 85 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 | 150 ft (taller than 87.4% in NC) |
| Dam Length | 900 ft |
| Dam Type | Rockfill |
| Max Storage | 67.1K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 65.6K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 1,462 acres |
| Drainage Area | 37 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 61,400 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1941 (85 years old) |
| NID ID | NC00378 |
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
Duke Energy
Public Utility
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High Hazard 173 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Thorpe?
Thorpe 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 Thorpe?
Thorpe is owned by Duke Energy (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Thorpe built?
Thorpe was completed in 1941, making it 85 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 Thorpe?
Thorpe serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Thorpe?
Thorpe has a dam height of 150 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 Thorpe last inspected?
Thorpe was last inspected on October 27, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.