Lecture on Floods

What is a Flood?

A flood is a great flowing or overflowing of water onto land not usually covered by water.
Considered a type of natural disaster.
Most common and expensive type of natural disaster.

River Flooding
- Occurs when rivers and streams cannot contain excess water from rain or melting snow.
- Water overflows onto normally dry land, called a flood plain.
- Flood plains are natural areas for overflow but often have cities and towns built on them.
- Consequences include destruction of farmland, homes, and risks to human and animal lives.
Coastal Flooding
- Caused by strong winds and waves, often during hurricanes or major storms.
- High tide coupled with a hurricane can lead to severe flooding as the ocean levels are already high.
Flash Floods
- Occur suddenly, typically due to heavy rain or thunderstorms.
- Common in mountainous areas where rapid water flow washes soil down slopes.
- Often catch people off guard, trapping them in cars or causing swift damage to buildings and homes.

Slow-rising flood waters allow for preparation: moving to higher ground or building barriers.
Rapidly rising waters lead to quick evacuation, property damage, and displacement of people from homes.

Understanding the different types of floods and their impacts is crucial for disaster preparedness and mitigation.