Abstract
The accumulation of large wood (LW) at bridge structures poses a significant flood hazard, yet the critical role of initial log placement in triggering these blockages remains insufficiently quantified. This study provides a systematic experimental investigation into the parameters governing the accumulation probability (AP) at bridge piers and abutments. It focuses on four key domains: (1) initial log placement conditions (release distance, lateral position, and orientation); (2) approach flow conditions; (3) geometric characteristics of the bridge, particularly the varying distance between the pier and abutment; and (4) LW characteristics, including length, diameter, branching, and transport regime (uncongested vs. congested). Results identified the worst-case scenario for LW accumulation around piers and abutments: logs released 1m upstream of the abutment nose, from the channel centerline, and oriented perpendicular to the flow. Furthermore, the analysis reveals that accumulation probability is predominantly a function of approach flow velocity, log length and diameter, and the distance between the pier and abutment. Overall, these findings provide a quantitative, design-oriented basis for estimating LW accumulation risk and for guiding the layout of pier–abutment systems to enhance resilience against wood-laden floods.