"Stuck gate closed Officials confirm Dardanelle Lock and Dam situation over"

The U. S. Army Corps of Engineers has successfully closed spillway gate 20 at Dardanelle Lock and Dam, resolving a situation that posed risks since Tuesday. The spillway had remained open to clear debris from the Arkansas River, leading to heightened concerns about water levels in Lake Dardanelle. Jay Townsend, Chief of Public Affairs, explained that they are exploring options to manage water flow effectively.

Currently, Arkansas Nuclear One, the state's only nuclear facility, is operating both units at 100% power, as confirmed by Entergy's regulatory manager Josh Toben. He emphasized the importance of monitoring lake levels to ensure continued safe operations. If necessary, the plant could be taken offline safely and reliably. The closure of the spillway may help stabilize water levels and mitigate risks. Meanwhile, barge traffic around the dam has been halted to ensure safety during this critical period.