The evacuation order for the Oroville Dam spillway incident was reduced to an evacuation warning yesterday, meaning the immediate threat has ended, but the potential for an emergency remains.
In a statement, the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) said it continues to reinforce the emergency spillway. More than 125 construction crews are working around the clock, and are placing 1200 tons of material on the spillway per hour using helicopters and heavy construction equipment. The area is being continually monitored from the ground and by the use of drones.
DWR continues to regulate outflow, to reduce water levels in the reservoir, support construction activities, and protect the Hyatt Power Plant. The level of the reservoir continues to decrease, and at current rates is projected to possess the capacity to absorb anticipated inflows due to forecasted inclement weather.
Although the evacuation order was reduced, Butte County Sheriff Kory L. Honea said residents must remain prepared for the possibility of an Evacuation Order.