How Cities Take Steps To Prevent Flooding

7/8/2020 (Permalink)

How Cities Take Steps To Prevent Flooding

Homes and businesses are not the only ones that are vulnerable to the ever-increasing cycle of flooding from storms seen in the past several years. Cities have also become the victim of flooding roads, torrential rains causing floods, and even broken dams or levees. Although most cities were not aware of the potential for floodwater disasters when they were built, urban planners have now begun using a variety of government supported methods to help manage the levels of high water.

Controlling the Water

One of the simplest methods of floodwater retention or prevention is the use of obstacles to control the flow of rising water and stop flooding. This is often done using:

• Dams
• Barriers
• Gates
• Levees
  

Inland cities favor dams and barriers, while tide gates are preferred near coastal areas or in estuaries.

Diverting the Water

When cities are frequently hit by high water or heavy storm causing floods, city engineers often opt for channels to control runoff waters and help with flood prevention. These can be temporary holding ponds, man-made canals, or cement causeways. Using the waterways and conduits to safely remove dangerous water flow to safe holding areas can prevent both streets and businesses from flooding.

Saving the Water

Using the stormwater diversion methods above to collect much needed groundwater is a management method that many environmentally-conscious towns and cities have begun implementing. Building floodplain projects can help collect floodwaters and slow the runoff by allowing the liquid to seep into and restore the ecosystem. Rain gardens are also being built to slow the flow of water and move it into the soil.

Urban and city planners across the globe have discovered that flood prevention is often possible if steps are taken to deter the high water from collecting or running down a path that will cause great financial damage. To find out how you can prevent flooding around or within your business, contact a water remediation specialist or your Edmond, OK, city planning department.