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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.
| Animation of types of floodwall failures | |
|---|---|
| Overtopping some flood embankments are designed to overtop |  |
| 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 |  |
| Rotation When the structure has moved of its axis causing an exposed area to be washed away |  |
| Sliding When the structure has moved sideways exposing the foundation to erosion as well as allowing gaps in between the structures |  |
| Seepage When water infiltrates under the structure. This is caused by burrowing animals like dogs, beavers,badgers and otters |  |
| 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 |  |
 | The main problem is the space required to construct and maintain such a structure. A flood embankment of 2.5 metres high requires an outreach of 15 metres, which makes it unsuitable in some areas. To prevent seepage through the embankment a central core is added to acquire stability and integrity. |  |
|---|
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.
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