Piping located in a flood hazard area must be designed to withstand what?

Piping located in a flood hazard area must be designed to withstand hydrostatic and hydrodynamic loads because these pressures are directly associated with the effects of water in flood-prone environments. Hydrostatic loads refer to the pressure exerted by stagnant water, while hydrodynamic loads arise from the motion of water, which can create additional forces on piping systems.

Designing to accommodate these loads is crucial because flood conditions can lead to significant pressures exerted on the piping system, impacting its structural integrity and functionality. This ensures the piping will not only survive potential flooding events but also maintain the capacity to function effectively in a safe manner.

Considering the other options, while wind loads and thermal expansion can be factors in mechanical design, they are not the primary concerns for piping situated in flood hazard zones. Vibration is also a consideration in certain contexts, but it does not directly relate to the unique challenges presented by flooding.