In this post we will be looking at meaning of flooding, types of floods, Causes of Flood and the Effects of Flood.
INTRODUCTION
Flooding is one of the most common types of natural hazards and can occur across different types of geographies from inland to coastal areas. Scientific knowledge, information technology, and accurate warning systems can limit fatalities while significant economic damage such as to crops, businesses, and infrastructure, often occurs.
Flooding is a major problem in many parts of the world and is one of the most natural disastrous events which takes place every year, especially in the coastal cities. Urban flood, being a natural disaster, cannot be avoided; however, the losses occurring due to flooding can be prevented by proper flood mitigation planning. Flooding of areas used for socio-economic activities produces a variety of negative effects. The magnitude of adverse effects depends on the vulnerability of the activities and population and the frequency, intensity and extent of flooding.
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As such, it is necessary to have a proper estimation of flood extent and flood hazard for the different flow conditions so that proper flood evacuation and disaster management plan can be prepared in advance.
What is flooding?
Flood is a term used to denote an enormous amount of water. When there is an outflow of water in a place, it is said to be flooded. The situation caused when the water becomes uncontrollable is said to be flooded. The flood may take different forms such as in the form of heavy rainfall when there is a breaking of the dam.
Flooding is arguably the weather-related hazard that is most widespread around the globe. It can occur virtually anywhere. A flood is defined as water overflowing onto land that usually is dry. Flooding is often thought of as a result of heavy rainfall, but floods can arise in a number of ways that are not directly related to ongoing weather events. Flooding is a major disturbance that impacts aquatic ecosystems and the ecosystem services that they provide. Predicted increases in global flood risk due to land use change and water cycle intensification will likely only increase the frequency and severity of these impacts.
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What Are the Types of Floods?
Flooding is usually considered a significant natural hazard causing disease, damage and loss to life, property, and infrastructure as well as disruption of public services. The following are types of floods:
- Flash floods: Are fast-moving waters that sweep everything in their path, they are caused by heavy rainfall or rapid snow thaw. Flash floods usually cover a relatively small area and occur with little to no notice, generally less than six hours. The rapid water torrents can move large objects like cars, rocks, and trees.
- Coastal floods: Are caused by strong winds or storms that move towards a coast during high tide.
- River floods: They are characterized by gradual riverbank overflows caused by extensive rainfall over an extended period. The areas covered by river floods depend on the size of the river and the amount of precipitation. River floods rarely result in loss of lives but can cause immense economic damage.
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- Urban floods: occur when the drainage system in a city or town fails to absorb the water from heavy rain. The lack of natural drainage in an urban area can also contribute to flooding. Water flows out into the street, making driving very dangerous. Although water levels can be just a few inches deep, urban floods can cause significant structural damage.
- Pluvial floods: form in flat areas where the terrain can’t absorb the rainwater, causing puddles and ponds to appear. Pluvial flooding is similar to urban flooding, mainly in rural areas. The agricultural activities and properties in areas where pluvial floods have occurred can be seriously affected.
Causes of flood.
A flood is a water body that occupies ground that is ordinarily dry. Floods are widespread natural phenomena that can affect millions of people worldwide. Drinking water can also be polluted by flooding and contribute to illnesses. They are mostly caused by rivers, but floods can also occur from flooding lakes and seas. When the dam bursts, the flood can take various forms, such as in the form of heavy rainfall. In addition, the loss of snow also contributes to floods. For example, floods can cause dangerous landslides. Floods add to an excessive and immense spread of water, but are not considered healthy for drinking purposes. Basically, the following are causes of flood:
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- Heavy Rains
- Collapsed Dams
- Channels with Steep Sides
- Overflowing Rivers
- Melting Snow and Ice
- Urban Drainage Basins
- Deforestation
- Storm Surges and Tsunamis
- A Lack of Vegetation
- Emission of Greenhouse Gases
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The Effects of Flood
Often the effects of flood are long term and can be very costly, disruptive and distressing for communities involved. The following are some of the major effects of floods:
- Loss of lives and property
- The effect of a landslide
- Structural damage to bridges and roadways
- Soil erosion
- Diseases and epidemics
- Hindering economic growth and development
- Political implications
- Psychosocial effects
- Mass Relocation
- Decreased purchasing and production power