"and just where will the water go after the dam breaks?...hopefully simple physics"
Just as you say BP simple physics must apply sooner or later. If much later then the more profound will be the backlash. At least that is what I believe and rely upon.

At least you have the stars and perhaps tea leaves with a crystal ball to help you. I only scratch my head and if it still itches I suspect someting is afoot. My scalp is very itchy for a long while now. ( When the dam breaks I suspect an sp of about 10 times of present for a short while and eventually settle at 5 times of present.)
Welcome back & Cheers.