The radial drainage pattern sees rivers running off a conical hill or mountain. It gives a drainage pattern resembling the spokes on a wheel, radiating from the centre to the outer edges (Fig. 8.4). The individual rivers can later form a dendritic pattern as they move away from the hill.
Fig. 8.4(a) Radial drainage pattern.
Fig. 8.4(b) Radial drainage pattern on an OS map.
Parallel
Commonly found in Cork and Waterford, these rivers flow parallel to each other due to the shape and structure of the land (Fig. 8.5). They run across the valleys created between fold mountains. Most rivers run from west to east, but all eventually run into the sea or lake without ever joining.
Fig. 8.5(a) Parallel drainage pattern.
Fig. 8.5(b) Parallel drainage pattern on an OS map. Notice the parallel river channels.
