Top 10 Most Dangerous Dams in the World – You Won’t Believe What’s at Risk!
Dams are considered modern marvels of engineering — holding back unimaginable volumes of water, powering entire regions, and preventing floods. But what happens when these giants begin to crack, shift, or face natural threats? In this list, we count down the Top 10 Most Dangerous Dams in the World, where one failure could mean disaster for millions.
1. Mosul Dam – Iraq
Often called the most dangerous dam in the world, Mosul Dam is built on unstable ground that constantly requires grouting. Experts warn it could collapse without warning, flooding entire cities — including Mosul and even parts of Baghdad.
2. Three Gorges Dam – China
The largest hydroelectric dam in the world, it holds more water than any other dam on Earth. Though a symbol of power, critics point out potential risks like seismic activity and structural stress. A failure here would be catastrophic for downstream cities.
3. Oroville Dam – USA
Located in California, Oroville made headlines in 2017 when its spillway crumbled under pressure, forcing the evacuation of nearly 200,000 people. It was a close call — and a wake-up call.
4. Kariba Dam – Zambia/Zimbabwe
A vital power source for southern Africa, Kariba Dam is aging fast. Erosion at its foundation has raised red flags among engineers for years.
5. Itaipu Dam – Brazil/Paraguay
This massive structure generates more electricity than any other — but its location on a tectonic fault line is cause for concern.
6. Tarbela Dam – Pakistan
With a history of repairs and sediment buildup, experts worry about the long-term stability of this crucial dam on the Indus River.
7. Bhakra Nangal Dam – India
Built in a seismic zone, this towering structure is critical for irrigation and electricity — but an earthquake here could spell disaster.
8. Sayanogorsk Dam – Russia
A powerful hydropower dam in Siberia with past industrial accidents, including a deadly turbine explosion in 2009.
9. Monticello Dam – USA
Famous for its dramatic “glory hole” spillway, this dam’s unique design stuns viewers — but also raises serious safety concerns during high flows.
10. Glen Canyon Dam – USA
With pressure building in Lake Powell and nearby fault lines, experts worry about its future stability amid climate extremes.
