Flood barriers can take on a range of shapes and forms. They can be used to protect individual houses or whole towns and cities from quickly rising rivers. All municipalities are generally advised to have a series of plans on hand for any contingency. Depending on the exact situation, a certain plan can then be quickly put into action so that a large natural disaster can be prevented. Some of the barriers themselves may have to be shipped in from out of town, but this is generally to be expected. As long as there is at least one major transportation artery open, things should progress.
Sandbags are often the first step when a flood seems imminent. These bags can be stacked up alongside crucial property areas to guard against an onslaught of water. This generally works well when a river is heading toward its cresting phase and residents need just a little extra help to keep the water out of their neighborhood. Usually, stacking sandbags is a volunteer effort undertaken by many members of the local community. These events often find their way on to the local news, where they feature as a human interest story during the event.
Retaining walls and other larger obstacles are also used to prevent floods. These are more permanent measures, however, and are often set in place by civil engineers during the dry season. Such walls are especially prominent in areas that are prone to flooding. Because such areas seem to experience floods on a more regular basis, it makes perfect sense that government agencies would see the benefits of spending cash in these regions.
In certain cases, flood barriers refer specifically to flood gates that are meant to control the natural flow of water in a river or lake. During high precipitation events that often lead to larger-than-normal flows, these gates can be manipulated in order to prevent the water itself from infiltrating inland areas. In fact, flood gates are usually set up as an intricate system of doors and levees that work together to perform quite impressive feats. Whole bodies of water can be controlled in this manner.
Ultimately, there are many ways that towns and cities prevent floods. Because hydrologists are so good at measuring the daily discharge of rivers and streams, they can generally warn municipalities when some sort of high-flow event is expected. City and town leaders can then take action to combat any potential flooding. If engineers have prepared the flood gates and levees correctly, all but the most extreme storms can be ridden out. Most barriers, of course, will need to be maintained from year to year so that they do not degrade and eventually wear out.
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For 15 Years Kevin Williams has restored flood damaged properties ranging from domestic dwellings to commercial factories.In 2010 He set up Floodsense offering his expertise in Flood Prevention Techniques, Systems and Services.For free E-book, further info on Flood Barriers, and professional advice on flood prevention from a leading UK flood protection company, visit http://www.floodsense.co.uk
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