Temporary Protection Measures
Temporary protection of the railway embankment section is sometimes necessary, particularly in flood events
where immediate action is necessary and time constraints do not permit implementation of a permanent
solution. Periodic and close track inspections of flood and washout susceptible areas and identification of high
risk locations will be a beneficial first step in determining the appropriate remedial repair.
Temporary protection of potential overflow slopes and fill sections subject to erosion and sloughing can be
provided by placement of an armor of heavy weight material, not easily displaced by floodwaters, such as largesized
stone (riprap) or sandbags. In blanketing the slopes, it is critical that the toe be adequately protected to
minimize the risk of base scour and possible embankment failure. Raising the embankment shoulder with
riprap and sandbags can also be a suitable means for temporary relief.
3.6.1.3 Permanent Protection Measures
In overflow territories, care must be taken to review the adequacy of design, location and construction of
existing drainageways and make appropriate corrections if deficiencies are found. Sufficient waterway capacity
is essential to minimize heading during floods and, if necessary, provisions should be made for additional relief
openings to handle the flow. The impact of runoff from neighboring facilities, existing and proposed, must also
be assessed. Input from applicable local, state, or federal authorities should be sought in these preliminary
drainage assessments.