Levee slides are natural byproduct of heavy rain

Residents near the levees and commuters who cross the Trinity River may notice cracks and bulging along certain areas of the earthen levee system. These “slides” are superficial to the outer layers of the levee and are common to see after a period of heavy rain. Dallas Water Utilities flood control crews walk the levees daily, and if a slide is identified, the slides are covered with tarp to prevent additional rain from seeping in. The slides cannot be repaired until the area is dry and the river recedes from the levee. Several days of dry weather and wind help speed up the drying process.

The repairs include cutting and replacing the levee with new and existing clay and lime, which can take several months. The repairs do not pose a safety risk to the public. The public is advised not to enter work zone areas.

The City of Dallas works together with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to monitor the levees during periods of heavy rainfall. The levees system is working as intended, and both the City and the Corps are confident there is no risk of levee failure.

Below are examples of levee slides. Click here to learn more about the proactive measures the City takes to prevent flooding.