The 1979 Pathfinder Dam Failure Threat
- Eric Paulson
- Oct 5
- 2 min read
I’ll never forget the night the sirens wailed through Casper. One moment, we were enjoying a quiet summer evening—the next, the radio crackled with urgent warnings: “Pathfinder Dam may fail. Evacuate immediately.”
My heart pounded as I scrambled to gather my family and a few essentials. We’d always talked about having a go-bag, but now, with minutes to spare, I realized how unprepared we really were. The streets filled with neighbors—some in pajamas, others clutching pets, everyone searching for loved ones.
As we joined the line of cars heading to higher ground, I looked back at our home and wondered if we’d ever see it again. The fear was real, but so was the sense of community—strangers offered rides, shared blankets, and comforted each other in the darkness. That night, I learned that disaster doesn’t wait for you to be ready—and that true strength comes from standing together.
In June 1979, heavy rains and rapid snowmelt raised alarm about the structural integrity of Pathfinder Dam, which holds back the North Platte River near Casper, Wyoming. Officials feared the dam could fail, threatening to unleash a catastrophic flood on the city and surrounding communities.
Thousands were evacuated in the dead of night, with families forced to leave behind homes, pets, and possessions. Emergency shelters sprang up, and local responders, volunteers, and neighbors worked tirelessly to keep people safe and informed.
Thankfully, the dam held, and disaster was averted. But the event left a lasting mark on Casper, driving home the importance of emergency planning, community networks, and readiness for the unexpected.
Lessons Learned
• Have a go-bag ready: Emergencies happen fast—keep essential supplies, documents, and contact info packed and accessible.
• Know your evacuation routes: Familiarize yourself with local plans and safe zones before disaster strikes.
• Stay informed: Radios, alerts, and community networks can save lives when every second counts.
• Community is everything: In crisis, neighbors and volunteers become lifelines—build those connections now.
A huge thank you to Thunderbeast Arms of Cheyenne, our 2026 sponsor, for supporting Wyoming Patriots’ mission of preparedness and resilience.
Don’t miss our upcoming Field to Feast Workshop at Cackleberry Farms—sign up now at wyomingpatriots.info/events and learn the skills that keep you ready for anything!
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