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Dead River

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Dead River P-10855

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Two Dams Break in Michigan' s Upper Peninsula

By: John Seebach  Wednesday May 14, 2003
Region: Great Lakes
States: Michigan

On May 14, an earthen dike on the Dead River near Marquette, Michigan collapsed, sending an 8-billion gallon torrent of water downstream and ultimately forcing another dam breach the following day. Over 1,700 people were evacuated from their homes.

The 90-year old dam, which held back Silver Lake, was restraining the pressure of heavy rains at the time of collapse, but according to reports, the water level was nowhere near anticipated critical levels. Investigations are still underway.