Tulvasuoja

Tulvasuoja refers to measures and structures designed to protect areas from flooding. These can include both natural and built interventions. Natural flood protection methods often involve preserving and restoring wetlands, forests, and floodplains, which can absorb excess water and slow down its flow. Built structures are more direct interventions and can range from simple barriers to complex engineering projects.

Common built flood protection measures include levees, also known as dikes or embankments, which are earthen or concrete walls built along the banks of rivers or coastlines to prevent water from entering adjacent land. Flood walls are similar but are typically vertical structures made of concrete or masonry. Dams and reservoirs can be used to control river flow and store excess water, releasing it gradually to prevent downstream flooding. Other methods include elevated construction, where buildings are raised on stilts or foundations to be above anticipated flood levels, and flood barriers that can be deployed temporarily when a flood threat is imminent.

The effectiveness of tulvasuoja depends on various factors, including the type and scale of the flood, the design and maintenance of the protective measures, and the surrounding landscape. Integrated flood management strategies often combine multiple approaches, considering both structural and non-structural solutions, to provide comprehensive protection against flood risks. The choice of tulvasuoja is usually based on a risk assessment that considers historical flood data, geographical characteristics, and potential economic and social impacts of flooding.