Virginia Tech Researchers Use Satellite Data to Assess Risk of U.S. Dams

Researchers from Virginia Tech are utilizing satellite data to assess the structural integrity of large hydroelectric dams in the U.S. Preliminary findings indicate that some dams, despite expectations of stabilization, are still sinking, potentially compromising their safety.

As of 2024, over 16,500 dams in the U.S. are classified as high hazard potential, with more than 2,500 in poor condition. The team employed radar technology from the Sentinel-1 satellite to monitor sinking trends over the past decade, particularly in dams 50 feet or taller.

One notable case involved a North Carolina dam identified as sinking, which poses risks to nearby communities. The research highlights the potential risks to socially vulnerable populations and emphasizes the importance of maintenance and management in mitigating dam failure risks. Future efforts will include developing dynamic risk models and an interactive map to provide ongoing assessments of dam safety.