The diagrams show two methods to protect areas that are vulnerable to flooding. Overall, the main difference between the two methods lies in the presence of a stopbank. In locations where there is a stopbank, it can act as a barrier, whereas in areas without one, the building itself is elevated so that it remains above the projected flood level.
In the first scenario, a stopbank is constructed near a river or drain, with a freeboard to ensure that the stopbank blocks out the 100-year flood water from entering the area. There is also a floodgate at the base of the stopbank. Although the area is protected from direct flood water, heavy rains can lead to internal runoff, creating internal ponding. To address this issue, the building is constructed on raised platforms in order to ensure that it remains safe from flooding.
In the second scenario, by contrast, there is no stopbank to prevent flood water from entering the site. The building, therefore, is elevated with supporting stilts. The freeboard between the house floor level and the estimated 100-year flood or ponding level is 300 mm, which ensures that the risk of flooding is minimised.
