Cooling ponds are designed to handle heavy rainfall and potential flooding by incorporating features that allow for water flow management and overflow control. To accommodate sudden increases in water volume, cooling ponds often have spillways or overflow channels that direct excess water safely away from the pond. These features prevent the pond from overflowing and causing damage to the surrounding environment or the power plant's infrastructure.
The pond's design typically includes a buffer area around the edges to absorb extra water without compromising the liner or other structural components. In some cases, engineers may also adjust the pond's water levels before anticipated rainfall by lowering the water level slightly, providing more capacity for rainwater. Properly maintained, cooling ponds can manage stormwater effectively without losing their cooling efficiency. After heavy rainfall, regular monitoring ensures that the pond's temperature and water quality remain within acceptable levels.
