Thunder Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Thunder Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1962 and is 64 years old. Its primary use is recreation. 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 Length | 550 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 870 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 704 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 40 acres |
| Year Completed | 1962 (64 years old) |
| NID ID | NC00168 |
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
The Mary Stone Fraser Limited Partnership
Private
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High HazardFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Thunder Lake Dam?
Thunder Lake 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 Thunder Lake Dam?
Thunder Lake Dam is owned by The Mary Stone Fraser Limited Partnership (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Thunder Lake Dam built?
Thunder Lake Dam was completed in 1962, making it 64 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 Thunder Lake Dam?
Thunder Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
When was Thunder Lake Dam last inspected?
Thunder Lake Dam was last inspected on February 21, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.