Lynchburg Dam Collapse Threat: Residents Evacuated

LYNCHBURG, VA — Virginia residents were evacuated from their homes in Lynchburg Thursday night because of the threat of a dam collapse. The National Weather Service in Blacksburg said the College Lake Dam had filled beyond capacity due to heavy rains.

"At this time, the dam has not failed, and is being closely monitored by emergency personnel for any signs of structural failure," the NWS said Thursday night.

Flash flood warnings and watches remained in effect for Lynchburg Friday. Weather officials also said periods of showers and thunderstorms with the potential for heavy rains and flooding will continue into Friday night.

Residents in the area of the Blackwater Creek, where the flood water was flowing into, were evacuated due to the threat.

Photos posted by the city to Facebook showed families being rescued in boats, a partial road collapse and heavy waters flowing through a stream.

This report will be updated.

Photo via Shutterstock