(a) Whenever the chief engineer finds that: (1) The construction, modification, operation or maintenance of a dam or other water obstruction is in violation of adopted rules and regulations or of terms, conditions or restrictions of a permit or consent granted by the chief engineer or, (2) conditions exist in the construction, modification, operation or maintenance of a dam or other water obstruction which may present a hazard to the public’s safety, he or she shall issue an order to require the correction of any such violation or condition existing in the construction, modification, operation or maintenance of a dam or other water obstruction by the owner or operator thereof. An order may be issued to require the removal of a dam or other water obstruction. The order shall contain the chief engineer’s findings concerning any violation or conditions existing and shall prescribe the corrective action to be taken.

(b) Whenever the condition of any dam or other water obstruction is so dangerous to the safety of life or property as not to permit time for the issuance and enforcement of an order relative to construction, modification, maintenance or operation thereof, or, the passing of imminent floods threaten the safety of any dam or other water obstruction, the chief engineer shall immediately employ any remedial means necessary to protect the safety of life or property. The chief engineer shall continue in full charge and control of any such dam or other water obstruction until the same is rendered safe or the emergency occasioning the remedial action has ceased.