Nieuwpoort storm surge barrier
In the port channel of Nieuwpoort, at the mouth of the Yser, agency Maritime Services and Coast (MDK) is building a storm surge barrier. This will protect the city and its hinterland from heavy storm surges in the future. Protection by the storm surge barrier is already necessary during storm surges with a probability of occurrence of once every ten years. However, the structure will also protect against more severe storm surges. This takes into account a sea level rise of 80 centimeters until the year 2100.
Test closures
After construction, there will be a 38-meter passage width. There will be a bypass sewer in each abutment. These lateral tubes should ensure that flow velocities are reduced. If the water level threatens to rise above +6 meters TAW(which is six meters above the mean low tide at spring tide), the barrier will be closed. One trial closure will take place annually. The barrier will then be rotated to the retaining position for a full tide. A test closure of shorter duration will occur every two weeks.
App
Download the storm drain app to stay informed of obstructions or hindrance in the channel. You can set up push notifications to be notified of changes. You will also find information on tides, wave height, wind and currents in the app.
For more info and link to the app:
https://www.agentschapmdk.be/nl/projecten/stormvloedkering-nieuwpoort.