Huge Sinkhole Opens at Highest Dam in the U.S.

After a year of heavy rains, California’s Lake Oroville—home to the country’s tallest dam—has almost reached its maximum capacity, and its infrastructure is feeling the strain. That’s a complete reversal from the end of 2015, when persistent drought brought the lake’s water level to about 694 feet, or 33% of capacity—the second lowest level ever

recorded. By yesterday morning the lake was swollen with so much water, 895 feet, that it had reached 96% of its maximum capacity. The 770-foot-tall Oroville Dam creates the lake by impounding the Feather River, serving to generate hydroelectric power, supply water, and control flooding. READ MORE