A flood barrier, surge barrier of storm surge barrier is a specific type of floodgate, designed to prevent a storm surge or spring tide from flooding the protected area behind the barrier. A surge barrier is almost always part of a larger flood protection system consisting of floodwalls, levees (also known as dykes), and other constructions and natural geographical features.
Surge barriers allow water to pass under normal circumstances but, when a (storm) surge is expected the barrier, can be closed. The means of closing can consist of various forms of gates.
Famous quotes containing the words flood and/or barrier:
“The vines of her arms
didnt cling to the ends of his clothes,
or did she plant herself in the doorway,
hurl herself at his feet,
or utter the word Stay!
But as that fool began to go
at the time when it was dark with swarming clouds,
the slim girl blocked her lovers way
with only a rising river
made with her flood of tears.”
—Amaru (c. seventh century A.D.)
“Whatever may be our just grievances in the southern states, it is fitting that we acknowledge that, considering their poverty and past relationship to the Negro race, they have done remarkably well for the cause of education among us. That the whole South should commit itself to the principle that the colored people have a right to be educated is an immense acquisition to the cause of popular education.”
—Fannie Barrier Williams (18551944)