1.   If the dam failed to control a large flood, the fatalities and economic loss could be worse than if it had not been built.

2.   The dam failed when the river, rising due to rain, breached the plastic fabric in several places.

3.   The term does not imply a deficiency but indicates that, if the dam failed for any reason, loss of life and extensive property damage would be expected.

4.   Rather it indicates the potential for damage and loss of life if the dam should fail because of flooding, earthquake or other reasons.

5.   But authorities are worried that several other dams could fail under the strain of all the rain.

6.   The committee is to determine why the dam failed and recommend ways of avoiding future spills.