Flood embankment
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A flood embankment is traditionally an earth wall used to shore up flood waters.
Most flood embankments are between 1 metre and 3 metres high. A 5-metre-high (16 ft) flood embankment is rare.[1]
Modern improvements to this design include constructing an internal central core made from impermeable substance like clay or concrete, some even use metal pilings.[2]
Some authorities call man-made structures levees.
Problems
[edit]Animation of types of floodwall failures | |
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Overtopping
some flood embankments are designed to overtop |
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When not by design, the crest can wash away and cause a breach | ![]() |
Structural failure
If any weakness is detected under strong water pressure, the compromise is soon exacerbated |
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Rotation
When the structure has moved of its axis causing an exposed area to be washed away |
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Sliding
When the structure has moved sideways exposing the foundation to erosion as well as allowing gaps in between the structures |
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Seepage
When water infiltrates under the structure. This is caused by burrowing animals like dogs, beavers,badgers and otters |
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Piping
When water finds its way under the structure and collects on the other side. A central core is normally designed in to prevent piping |
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Examples
[edit]![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/1/19/The_River_Trent_embankment_West_Butterwick_-_geograph.org.uk_-_712334.jpg/278px-The_River_Trent_embankment_West_Butterwick_-_geograph.org.uk_-_712334.jpg)
Clifton, Rawcliffe, Poppleton and Leeman ings in York
Animation
[edit]This is an animation showing a flood event overwhelming neighbouring properties and the added construction of a flood embankment and flood warning and protection status.
References
[edit]- ^ "Chapter 9". evidence.environment-agency.gov.uk. Archived from the original on 2016-06-24. Retrieved 2016-05-01.
- ^ "Chapter 9". evidence.environment-agency.gov.uk. Archived from the original on 2016-06-24. Retrieved 2016-05-01.