Flood Vulnerability And Load Capacity Assessment Of Historic Masonry Arch Bridges In Ireland Under Changing Climates
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https://doi.org/10.1016/j.eve.2026.100153 <-- shared paper
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H/T @Upaka Rathnayake
“HIGHLIGHTS:
Field surveys and flood modelling were used to evaluate the resilience of eight historic masonry arch bridges in County Offaly, Ireland, under projected fluvial flooding conditions.
Results indicate that increased flood levels and hydraulic forces can significantly reduce bridge load-carrying capacity, with potential reductions of up to 40% due to buoyancy effects during extreme flood events.
The study demonstrates a clear relationship between flood exposure and structural deterioration, emphasizing the need for structural health monitoring, maintenance strategies, and climate-resilient infrastructure management…
ABSTRACT: Masonry bridges, predominantly constructed from stone or brick, were a common feature of bridge engineering during the 18th and 19th centuries. However, these historic bridges are still in use today, but they are at risk due to various extreme climate conditions. Thus, these bridges are vulnerable to damage and needy for investigation. This paper offers an in-depth analysis of the projected impacts of fluvial flooding stemming from climate change on a number of masonry arch bridge structures located in county Offaly, Ireland. It evaluates bridge resilience by examining estimated flood levels alongside the overall condition of the structures. These assessments play a crucial role in determining the load-bearing capacity of the bridges and whether adjustment factors should be implemented. Particularly for bridges situated on primary and secondary roads with consistent heavy goods vehicle (HGV) traffic, the potential decrease in load-bearing capabilities warrants significant consideration. This study highlights concerns regarding the resilience of these historic structures and presents a valid argument regarding their suitability for contemporary environmental conditions and present-day activities…”
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