An absorbing dynamometer acts as a load that is driven by the prime mover that is under test (e.g. Pelton wheel). The dynamometer must be able to operate at any speed and load to any level of torque that the test requires.
Other factors which may contribute to flooding include: 1  volume, spatial distribution, intensity and duration of rainfall over a catchment; 2  the capacity of the watercourse or stream network to convey runoff; 3  catchment and weather conditions prior to a rainfall event; 4  ground cover; 5  topography; and. 6  tidal influences.
Dam failures can send a sudden destructive wall of water downstream. In 1889 a dam break upstream from Johnstown, Pennsylvania, released a 30-40 foot wall of water that killed 2200 people within minutes. Mountains and steep hills produce rapid runoff , which causes streams to rise quickly. Rocks and clay soils do not allow much water to infiltrate the ground. Saturated soil also can lead rapidly to flash flooding. Vacationing or recreating along streams or rivers can be a risk if there are thunderstorms in the area.