On April 6, at 7 p.m., authorities in Carroll County took steps to address the growing misinformation regarding the opening of the Dix Dam. Officials from Kentucky Utilities and Carrollton Mayor Robb Adams provided clarifications amidst ongoing evacuations in the area. Daniel Lowry from Kentucky Utilities issued a statement to LEX 18, explaining the situation surrounding the Dix Dam.
According to Lowry, the utility company has been opening the spill gates of the Dix Dam in a controlled manner since Friday evening. He noted that the flow from Herrington Lake has decreased as of Sunday morning, and efforts to close the gates were underway on the same day. This operation is being conducted according to established procedures to ensure safety and manage water levels effectively.
Franklin County Judge Executive Michael Mueller also addressed the situation, stating, "I want to squash all this misinformation about Dix Dam." He confirmed that the releases from the dam are occurring as planned under the guidance of the State of Emergency Management. Mueller acknowledged that while Mayor Adams reported that ten gates were opened, this was part of a prearranged plan. He emphasized that the current crest level of 49.5 feet, which is expected to remain until 8 a.m., will not negatively impact Frankfort and Franklin County.
In a follow-up video, Mayor Robb Adams expressed his regret regarding the earlier miscommunication about the Dix Dam. He clarified, “All I did was pass along what we had at the time. Now I am sharing the accurate information we have received from the same source.” The mayor stressed that the reports of ten gates being accidentally opened were incorrect and stemmed from a misunderstanding with Frankfort officials.
As a precautionary measure, mandatory evacuations have been ordered for several areas, including Prestonsville, Greensbottom, Happy Hollow, Blue Lick, Lock Number One Road, and Lower Mason Street, as stated by Carroll County Emergency Management (CCEM). Mayor Adams relayed this information on social media, highlighting the gravity of the situation.
The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet - District 7 clarified that the release of water from the Herrington Lake Spillway was a planned operation, not an accidental one, and was accounted for in flood prediction models. Mike Ratliff from CCEM warned of the significant impact the release at Dix Dam is having on downstream areas, with forecasts predicting the Kentucky River could reach heights of 57 feet.
Ratliff's letter emphasized the unprecedented nature of the flooding event, urging residents to take the situation seriously. He warned that failure to evacuate could jeopardize safety, stating, “If you fail to evacuate, there is no guarantee that resources exist to provide for your rescue.” The letter concluded by reiterating the life-threatening nature of this high-impact event.
For ongoing updates and accurate information regarding the Dix Dam situation, residents are encouraged to stay tuned to official announcements and local news outlets.
