Flood Control

Water brings life but the deadly force of water can also cause horrible devastation. While no man-made structure is capable of containing Mother Nature when she rages, the dams and reservoirs in Alabama Power's hydroelectric generating system can help control local flooding. This not only provides a sense of security for localities which potentially lie in harm's way, but permits more extensive development of lands along the banks of Alabama's rivers.

Hydro facilities seasonally store and release water into river systems. During the fall and winter, hydro plants release water, making electricity and lowering lake levels. However, lake levels are kept at a level sufficient to support wildlife, boat navigation and other flow requirements. By lowering the lakes, room is made for the water from the spring rains. Then, during spans of heavy rainfall and high river floods, water is stored in a flood easement area, reducing downstream impact. Once warm weather returns, the lakes are usually full and ready to meet the recreational and power needs of the hot summer months.