Emergency Action Plan for Qaraoun Dam

The plan aims to minimize loss of life and mitigate material damage in the event of a failure of Qaraoun Dam, the largest dam in Lebanon. Qaraoun Dam has been providing hydropower and irrigation water for nearly 50 years and is expected to continue doing so with proper operation and maintenance by the Litani River Authority (LRA). Recent seismic safety analyses conducted by the LRBMS program have demonstrated that the dam is in good condition and would safely withstand a large earthquake without failing. However, conditions within the dam body can change, and an earthquake of larger magnitude is also a possibility. Therefore, an action plan is necessary to prepare the LRA, local authorities, and populations downstream of Qaraoun Dam to take action if extreme events result in partial or full dam failure. The plan defines responsibilities and provides procedures designed to identify unusual and unlikely conditions around Qaraoun Dam in order to notify appropriate authorities, take timely action, and safeguard the lives and reduce damage to the property of residents along the lower Litani River. The plan identifies three emergency levels: Normal situation, Unusual situation, no immediate danger, and Emergency situation, or dam failing. The notification process involves immediate notification of the LRA General Director, Head of Hydro-Electric Production, and other authorities when an emergency level is changed. The plan also outlines the execution of the emergency action plan, including preparation, awareness raising, and implementation. The proposed communication/alert procedures should be practiced on a regular basis, at least annually. The plan includes a contact list with institutions and individuals responsible for notification and response in the event of an emergency. The emergency levels and notification flowchart outline the procedures for notification and response in the event of an emergency. The plan emphasizes the importance of regular practice and updating of the contact list to ensure effective response in the event of an emergency. The plan aims to provide a framework for preparedness and response to minimize loss of life and mitigate material damage in the event of a failure of Qaraoun Dam.