Dam failure occurs when a dam collapses or shifts, releasing large amounts of water that can endanger lives and property. Dams are built from materials like earth, rock, and concrete, considering factors such as height and reservoir volume.

Common causes of dam failure include overtopping, foundation defects, cracking, poor maintenance, and internal erosion from seepage, according to the ASDSO. Failures pose severe risks, potentially causing millions in property and environmental damage. Even small dams can create life-threatening floods due to the high volume and speed of water released.

Source:

• https://www.undrr.org/understanding-disaster-risk/terminology/hips/tl0009 
• https://damsafety.org/dam-failures