Update, 3:54 p.m. on 8/20/18:
The Branch County Drain Commissioner reports that repairs to the Blackhawk Dam continue Monday, and the repairs have returned the dam to normal flow and operation.
The dam will be evaluated by engineers to establish a long-term strategy. The Flood Watch issued by the National Weather Service for the Coldwater River and Pilot Knob area will expire August 20th.
The risk for flooding has been reduced. Residents in the affected area should continue to monitor local media outlets and official messaging for the latest information and updates. Branch County Emergency Management and the City of Coldwater will continue to monitor the situation.
Update, 9:55 p.m. on 8/19/18:
The Branch County Drain Commissioner says emergency repairs to the Blackhawk Dam continue, and the situation is improving. Materials and further repairs will be needed to return the dam to normal operations.
The Flood Watch issued by the National Weather Service for the Coldwater River and Pilot Knob area will continue. The risk for significant flooding has been reduced. Residents in the affected area should continue to monitor local media outlets and official messaging for the latest information and updates.
Original post:
The Blackhawk Dam on the Coldwater River in Branch County is failing, and there is a significant risk of flooding for residents in Coldwater and Pilot Knob, according to Branch County Emergency Management.
Materials and equipment are being brought in to repair the dam, and crews are working to mitigate the damage from the failure.
There's no word yet on what caused the dam to fail.
