A FLOODGATE
A floodgate is provided. The floodgate has a panel configured to be movable between an opened position and a closed position wherein in the opened position, the panel forms a barrier against flood water. First and second extendable members coupled to the panel exert a force to move the panel from the closed position towards the opened position about at least one hinge. A deactivation mechanism is operable to deactivate the first extendable member when the panel is moved from the closed position towards the opened position, thereby reducing force exerted by the first extendable member against the panel when the panel is moved from the opened position towards the closed position.