Flows into Conduit Openings

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Dam outlets, such as the one shown here from Harriman Dam, can trap and drown someone as they move through the conduit.

Typically a feature associated with larger dams but present at many different sizes and types of dams includes conduits and outlets that allow water to flow in a controlled manner from one side of a dam to the other. These outlets create dangerous undercurrents with powerful suction at the inlet that can trap and drown someone as they move through the conduit. These are extremely dangerous structures, but their dramatic appearance has led to a number of viral videos - most notably the morning glory or spillway at Monticello Dam in California - that in turn have led to thrill seekers and extreme athletes seeking them out, at times with tragic results. The currents around and within these structures are impossible to escape and are almost guaranteed to end in serious injury or death.

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Revision ID: 4436
Revision Date: 11/18/2022