This browser does not support the Video element.
OCONEE COUNTY, Ga. - The rains over the past week are causing major concerns for some residents in Oconee County. The dam above the Briar Lakes subdivision is in danger of collapsing.
Emil Beshara, Oconee County Director of the Public Works Division, said a tree fell on a corrugated pipe which is the dams spill way. That has resulted in the continual erosion of the private earthen dam.
Beshara said if the dam collapses the mud and debris would wash out the road below it. That road is the only way in and out for vehicles in a portion of the Briar Lakes Subdivision.
The Oconee County Sheriff's Office and Fire Department spent Tuesday afternoon advising residents of the possibility the dam could collapse.
Lee Weems, Chief Deputy with the Sheriff's Office said residents were advised to evacuate. but it was voluntary. He said 11 homes would be cut off from any vehicle traffic if the road is taken out by a failure of the dam. Many residents said they are choosing to stay.
The earthen dam is privately owned. The sheriff's office said the owner has hired a contractor to repair the damage with a new siphon drainage system which was installed.
More heavy rain on the way and officials hope the new drainage system will lower the lake level before the dam gives way and takes out the road below.