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Hydrodynamic Forces

The purpose of this page is to define hydrodynamic forces, a commonly used term in floodplain management.

Definition/Description

Hydrodynamic forces are imposed on an object, such as a building, by water flowing against and around it. Among the forces are positive frontal pressure against the structure, drag effect along the sides, and negative pressure in the downstream side. Hydrodynamic forces are one of the main causes of flood damage.Typical areas where hydrodynamic forces are of particular concern are along rivers and streams with high velocity floodwaters and coastal and other areas subject to wave forces.

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Last Updated: 
03/27/2018 - 09:43