What is Bankfull and Why is it Important?

Bankfull refers to the point at which a river or stream's water level reaches the top of its banks, causing the water to overflow onto the surrounding land. This can occur during periods of heavy rainfall, snowmelt, or other events that cause the water level to rise rapidly.

When a river reaches bankfull, it means that the water is at its highest point and is ready to spill over into the surrounding area. This can lead to flooding, erosion, and other hazards, depending on the severity of the event and the terrain of the surrounding land.

Bankfull is an important concept in hydrology and river engineering, as it helps to determine the capacity of a river or stream to handle different levels of water flow and the potential risks associated with flooding. By understanding when a river reaches bankfull, engineers and flood managers can take steps to mitigate the risks of flooding and protect people and property in the surrounding area.