Flood Prevention Solutions Around the World and at Home

3/13/2020 (Permalink)

If you live near a river in Point Pleasant, PA, you may see a lot of sandbags

Factors That Lead To High Water

Widespread flooding impacts communities every year, and coastal regions are particularly hard hit as hurricanes and tropical storms sweep past. However, as inland communities grow larger, flooding becomes a bigger problem when the existing infrastructure can't handle the necessary drainage. Here are some factors that lead to high water:

• Highly developed communities without drainage systems
  
• Communities built on flat ground
  
• Aging dams and other flood prevention structures
  
• Projected rises in sea level
  
  
  

Fortunately, civil engineers are working on solutions aimed to stop flooding. Check out a couple of great ideas.

Movable Watergates

Watergates are a popular solution found in many countries. These gates are generally left open, so ships can pass through. When water levels rise, the automated barriers are closed to prevent water from moving into cities.

Adjustable Barriers

Barriers with movable gates are another solution that has been effective in multiple countries. These barriers are effective at reducing the tidal height of water and protecting neighborhoods further inland. These walls are often triggered by computer readings and rising water. The movable barriers in Venice are especially important for protecting iconic canals.

Sandbags and Other Temporary Solutions

If you live near a river in Point Pleasant, PA, you may see a lot of sandbags as high water becomes a problem. Temporary levees and sand dunes are also common sights when flooding is a risk. Other solutions include barriers that can be raised and lowered with the help of hydraulic systems.

Existing Barrier Failures

Unfortunately, existing barriers don't always prevent your properties from water damage. When flood prevention methods haven't kept the water out of your buildings, it's important to contact water damage remediation and cleanup professionals as quickly as possible. The longer water is allowed to sit, the more serious damage can become.

High water is a consistent problem that has prompted a lot of flood prevention efforts. What solutions have you seen at work in Point Pleasant, PA? Have you taken steps to keep your properties safe?