Statistical Analysis of Global Dam Accidents in the 21st Century: A Focus on Common Features and Causes

Reem Nasser (), Dimitris Tzioutzios and Yiliu Liu
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Reem Nasser: Norwegian University of Science and Technology
Dimitris Tzioutzios: Norwegian University of Science and Technology
Yiliu Liu: Norwegian University of Science and Technology

Water Resources Management: An International Journal, Published for the European Water Resources Association (EWRA), 2025, vol. 39, issue 12, No 22, 6493-6516

Abstract: Abstract Effective water resource management often involves constructing dams to provide numerous benefits, yet mismanagement of these structures can lead to serious consequences, including fatalities, infrastructure damage, and environmental harm. As climate change intensifies, the risk of dam failure is expected to rise. This study provides a comprehensive global analysis of dam failures in the 21st century, examining the characteristics, causes, and impacts of these incidents. A detailed dataset of 53 operational dam failures was compiled, categorizing each case based on parameters such as seasonality, dam age, height, capacity, and primary and secondary causes of failure. The findings of the analysis reveal that most failures occurred in intermediate, non-aging dams, with human-related factors representing the predominant causes. Statistical analysis of cases worldwide highlights poor management, design and construction flaws, and meteorological factors—largely influenced by climate change—as the leading contributors to dam failures. By presenting these findings, this study aims to inform policymakers and stakeholders of the critical need for proactive risk mitigation, guiding them in prioritizing actions to reduce dam-related risks. The results also highlight the need to revise safety standards and implement targeted measures to reduce the risk of dam failures effectively. Graphical Abstract

Keywords: Dam failure; Natural hazard; Technical hazard; Resilience; Aging dams (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.1007/s11269-025-04259-7

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