Blanchard, Okla. – Several families in Grady County are stranded after severe storms caused a dam to collapse this week, leaving their only access road impassable. A section of Grady County Road 1322, which crosses over a dam holding back a reservoir south of Blanchard, was washed away late Wednesday night when the storm’s heavy rains overwhelmed the structure.
The dam failure released thousands of gallons of water, flooding at least one nearby home and surrounding properties. As a result, approximately 109 families residing at the dead end of County Road 1322 found themselves unable to reach or leave their homes. With no access route available, the situation has left residents in a state of uncertainty.
Local authorities confirmed that crews are actively working to build a temporary road to provide access to the affected families. State officials assured the public that restoration efforts are underway, though the process of repairing the damage and clearing the road may take time.
The collapse of the dam and subsequent flooding highlight the ongoing challenges that extreme weather events pose to rural communities. As residents wait for a resolution, emergency services and local organizations are coordinating to offer assistance to those impacted by the disaster.
While it remains unclear when the temporary access road will be completed, authorities are prioritizing the restoration of transportation routes to ensure the safety and mobility of the affected families.
In the meantime, efforts to assess the full extent of the damage to homes and properties are continuing. The storm’s aftermath has raised concerns about the integrity of other local infrastructure, prompting further evaluations of flood-prone areas across the region.
Residents of Grady County are urged to stay informed on developments and follow guidance from local officials.
