Lake Lure Dam no longer at ‘imminent risk of failure,’ officials say

UPDATE (09/27/2024 – 10:10 P.M.) – As of 8 p.m., engineers with Rutherford County evaluated the Lake Lure Dam and determined it is not at imminent risk of failure any longer.

“The flow rate has been controlled, and there is no immediate danger,” officials said.

Only local traffic is permitted in the area.

RUTHERFORD COUNTY, N.C. (WSPA) – Rutherford County Emergency Management said all residents below the Lake Lure Dam should evacuate immediately.

Officials said failure of the dam is “imminent.” Residents should evacuate to higher ground.

As of 3:45 p.m., officials said water was going over and around the dam wall.

Emergency management said that while structural supports have been compromised, the dam is currently holding.

Evacuation sirens are sounding downstream of the dam and emergency personnel are going door to door to ensure that everyone has been evacuated.

Rutherford County officials said they are waiting on the arrival of high-clearance vehicles from the state of North Carolina before they resume evacuations as Highway 64/74 is currently impassible at Lattimore Road.

Anyone above Lattimore Road should shelter in place until evacuations can resume.

An emergency shelter is available at R-S Central High School.

If you are not within the evacuation zone, officials ask that you remain home due to hazardous conditions on the road.

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