The word dike is used for a long embankment, often looking like a natural levee, that is used to prevent river water from flooding low-lying land.

Temporary dike at Grand Forks on the Red River of North Dakota

Dikes, which can also be called levees, can be built quickly to stop flooding getting worse, as shown above, or be permanent features, as shown below. In the example above the dike was built right up the centre of a main road. It was removed after the flood had stopped.

A permanent dike is usually made with a core of soil, and faced with stone or rush mats to prevent erosion. The top is broad and often planted with grass to help stabilize it.

The Embankment in London, England, is a stone structure. The front of it is a wall that has recently been raised to prevent flooding. Notice how the seats have had to be put on raised platforms so that people can see over the wall while seated.