Carter Lake Dam Compromised: Evacuation Ordered in Polk County

Emergency Evacuation Ordered After Carter Lake Dam Damage in Camden

A state of emergency has been declared in Polk County, Texas, following the compromise of the Carter Lake Dam near Camden. Authorities are urging residents in the southern floodplain to evacuate immediately as structural damage poses a significant flooding risk.

What Happened at Carter Lake Dam?

On Saturday, November 8, 2025, Polk County Office of Emergency Management (OEM) confirmed that the Carter Lake Dam suffered damage to its embankment. While officials have not yet identified the cause of the compromise, property owners are actively assessing the potential for a complete breach. The situation remains fluid as emergency crews monitor water levels and structural integrity.

Areas Under Mandatory Evacuation

All residents south of the Carter Lake Dam are required to evacuate immediately. Specifically, this includes:

Henry Darden Road
Marie Road
Community Drive
Bo Peep area
Herb Collins Road
Girard

Evacuation orders are being enforced by the Polk County Sheriff's Department with assistance from the Corrigan Volunteer Fire Department. Residents are urged to avoid low-lying areas and comply with first responders' instructions.

Shelter Information

For residents unable to seek alternative accommodations, the Dunbar Gym at 1103 Dunbar Avenue in Livingston has been designated as an emergency shelter. The facility is equipped to provide temporary housing, food, and essential services for evacuees.

Why Immediate Action is Critical

"Any breach of this dam could cause catastrophic flooding downstream," stated Polk County OEM officials. "Water levels are rising rapidly, and residents must evacuate now to ensure their safety." The evacuation zone was specifically chosen based on flood modeling showing immediate danger to properties within the identified corridors.

What Residents Should Do Now

Follow evacuation orders: Leave immediately if in the specified zones.
Stay informed: Monitor local news and official Polk County OEM channels for updates.
Do not return: The area remains under strict closure until further notice.
Check on neighbors: Assist elderly or vulnerable residents if safely possible.

Ongoing Assessment and Next Steps

Structural engineers and dam property owners are working around the clock to stabilize the structure and prevent a full collapse. The Texas Department of Emergency Management has been alerted to provide additional resources. Recovery efforts will begin once the immediate threat subsides and the area is declared safe.

Community Response

Local emergency services have mobilized rapidly, with first responders assisting in door-to-door evacuations along Henry Darden Road. The community response has been critical in ensuring vulnerable residents are relocated to safety before potential flooding occurs.

For real-time updates, residents should refer to the Polk County OEM website or follow official alerts on social media.