overtopped
Overtopped describes a condition in which water flows over the crest of a water-retaining structure, such as a levee, dike, dam, or coastal wall, during flood, storm surge, or high tides. It indicates that the crest height and associated freeboard are insufficient to completely contain the water level under the prevailing hydraulic conditions.
Causes of overtopping include extreme inflows from rainfall or river discharge, storm surge and high tides
The consequences of overtopping can range from localized erosion of the crest and slopes to internal erosion,
Engineering practice treats overtopping through design, monitoring, and mitigation. Designers aim to provide sufficient freeboard and