Overtopping meaning

Overtopping occurs when a wave exceeds the height of a coastal defense structure, leading to potential flooding and damage.


Overtopping definitions

Word backwards gnippotrevo
Part of speech Overtopping is a verb.
Syllabic division o-ver-top-ping
Plural The plural of the word overtopping is overtoppings.
Total letters 11
Vogais (3) o,e,i
Consonants (6) v,r,t,p,n,g

Overtopping: Understanding the Hazard

What is Overtopping?

Overtopping occurs when water flows over the top of a coastal defense structure, such as a seawall or levee, due to wave action and storm surges. This phenomenon can lead to flooding and erosion of the protected area behind the structure.

Causes of Overtopping

Overtopping is typically caused by extreme weather events, such as hurricanes, tsunamis, or heavy rainfall. High waves and strong winds can contribute to the water breaching the structure and causing significant damage.

Impact of Overtopping

Overtopping can result in flooding of coastal areas, leading to property damage, loss of life, and environmental destruction. The erosion caused by overtopping can also weaken the structure over time, making it more vulnerable to future events.

Preventing Overtopping

To prevent overtopping, coastal defense structures need to be designed and maintained to withstand extreme weather conditions. This can include building taller seawalls, implementing dune restoration projects, and reinforcing levees to reduce the risk of overtopping.

The Role of Climate Change

With sea levels rising and extreme weather events becoming more frequent and severe due to climate change, the risk of overtopping is increasing. It is crucial for coastal communities to adapt and prepare for these challenges to protect lives and property.

Overall, overtopping is a serious hazard that can have devastating consequences for coastal areas. By understanding the causes and impacts of overtopping, as well as implementing proactive measures to prevent it, we can better protect our communities from this threat.


Overtopping Examples

  1. The waves were overtopping the seawall during the storm.
  2. The water began overtopping the dam, causing concern for nearby residents.
  3. The river was overtopping its banks, flooding the surrounding fields.
  4. The pitcher was overtopping the competition with his fastball.
  5. The overtopping of the mountain peak provided breathtaking views of the valley below.
  6. The chef's plating skills were overtopping those of his colleagues.
  7. The magician's tricks were overtopping anything the audience had seen before.
  8. The skyscraper was overtopping all the other buildings in the city skyline.
  9. The professor's knowledge on the subject was overtopping that of his peers.
  10. The singer's vocal range was overtopping all expectations.


Most accessed

Search the alphabet

  • #
  • Aa
  • Bb
  • Cc
  • Dd
  • Ee
  • Ff
  • Gg
  • Hh
  • Ii
  • Jj
  • Kk
  • Ll
  • Mm
  • Nn
  • Oo
  • Pp
  • Qq
  • Rr
  • Ss
  • Tt
  • Uu
  • Vv
  • Ww
  • Xx
  • Yy
  • Zz
  • Updated 17/04/2024 - 03:50:45