Floods occur in almost all continents of the world and cause enormous damage to humanity. Floods usually occur due to a variety of natural and climatic factors. In areas with cold winters, flooding occurs due to ice jams that stop the flow of the river; and in areas with mountainous terrain, floods also occur due to heavy rainfall. To protect themselves from the water element, people build protective structures and take preventive measures. The most common bank protection structures are dams. In Yakutia, due to the natural and climatic features, floods occur almost every year. The article deals with the problem of flood protection and damage in the Sakha Republic (Yakutia). In the republic, only a small part of protective structures have been built in the total number of the settlements located in hazardous zones and exposed to the negative impact of waters. The condition of these structures raises some doubts, since the repair (maintenance) work is not carried out properly, and some of them are not built in accordance with building codes. In particular, the dam in the village of Grafsky-Bereg, Namsky District, is considered. The dam was built after a big flood in 2010 that caused huge damage to Namsky District. The condition of the dam along its entire length is considered. The technical condition of the dam was assessed and the need for maintenance and reinforcement of the dam in the village of Grafsky-Bereg was identified. Recommendations are given for repair, strengthening and maintenance of the dam for its further safe operation.