essay on flood prevention

Flooding and Climate Change: Everything You Need to Know

More communities—both coastal and inland—are finding themselves underwater. Extreme weather, sea level rise, and other climate change impacts are increasingly to blame.

A large wave crashes into a seawall in Winthrop, Massachusetts, a day after a nor'easter in 2018.

AP Photo/Michael Dwyer

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Floods are already the most common and among the most deadly disasters in the United States. As  global warming continues to exacerbate sea level rise and extreme weather, flood-prone areas around the country are expected to  grow by nearly half in just this century. Here’s how climate change plays a role in flooding and how we can better keep our heads above water.

Flooding facts and causes

Climate change and flooding, consequences of flooding, flood preparation and prevention, what causes a flood.

A flood, put simply, is the accumulation of water over normally dry land. It’s typically caused by the overflow of coastal or inland waters (like rivers and streams) or by an unusual accumulation of water from heavy or prolonged rains, storm surges, or sudden snowmelt. Often, the ways in which we manage our waterways (via dams, levees, and reservoirs) and the alterations we make to land also play a role in flooding. Increased urbanization, for example, adds impermeable surfaces (think roads and parking lots), altering natural drainage systems. Areas can be especially prone to flooding when  stormwater infrastructure isn’t maintained or homes are built in areas susceptible to flooding known as floodplains. More and more, flooding factors are also linked to climate change.

Major types of floods

River flooding This occurs when a river or stream overflows its natural banks and inundates normally dry land. Most common in early spring, river flooding can result from heavy rainfall, rapidly melting snow, or ice jams. According to the 2018 study "Estimates of Present and Future Flood Risk in the Conterminous United States," published in the journal Environmental Research Letters , more than 40 million U.S. residents are at risk from flooding along rivers and streams. And even a single episode can wreak havoc on a massive scale: For instance, in 2019, a slow-motion disaster of  intense spring flooding swelled the Arkansas, Mississippi, and Missouri rivers. Hundreds of miles of levees were topped or impaired, destroying homes and supersaturating cropland. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the inland flooding caused $20 billion in damage. Some of these losses stemmed from the impact to farmers who could no longer plant or transport their crops.

Coastal flooding More than  half of the U.S. population lives or works in areas susceptible to coastal flooding, which happens when winds from a coastal storm, such as a hurricane or nor’easter, push a storm surge (essentially, a wall of water) from the ocean onto land. A storm surge can produce widespread devastation, like that seen around New York and New Jersey when  Hurricane Sandy arrived during high tide .

There are also increasing numbers of shallow, nondeadly floods caused by higher sea levels. These high tide floods (also known as “nuisance” or “sunny day” floods) occur when the sea washes up and over roads and into storm drains as the daily tides roll in. In places like Miami, increased nuisance flooding is raising concerns over  climate gentrification , as wealthier residents looking to settle on higher ground are pricing out historically underserved BIPOC communities.

Flash floods These quick-rising floods are most often caused by heavy rains over a short period—usually six hours or less. Flash floods can happen anywhere, and low-lying areas with poor drainage are particularly vulnerable. Also caused by dam or levee breaks or the sudden overflow of water due to a debris or ice jam, flash floods combine the innate hazards of a flood with speed and unpredictability. That’s why they’re responsible for the greatest number of flood-related fatalities. In late 2022 and early 2023, California was hit by deadly flash floods during powerful wintertime atmospheric rivers, which may become more powerful as climate change increases the amount of moisture they can hold.

Urban flooding The term  urban flooding refers specifically to flooding that occurs when rainfall—not an overflowing body of water—overwhelms the  stormwater drainage capacity of a densely populated area. In 2021, Hurricane Ida, strengthened by warm air, shattered records across the Northeast. In New York City, the deluge made rivers of impermeable streets and subway stations. Eleven people living in basement-level apartments drowned as the floodwaters—with nowhere else to go—swiftly overwhelmed below-ground spaces.

A tractor trailer is swept off the road by floodwaters in Nebraska in 2019.

Ryan Soderlin/Omaha World-Herald via AP

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has found that climate change “has detectably influenced” several of the variables that contribute to floods, such as rainfall and snowmelt. In other words, while our warming world may not be the only or most direct cause of any given flood, it exacerbates many of the factors that increase flood risk. That’s why mitigating climate change—and particularly, limiting global average temperature rise to within 1.5 degrees Celsius in this century—is an important way to avert some of the worst scenarios for sea level rise and escalating flood risks. 

How does climate change lead to flooding?

These are some of the key ways that climate change increases flood risks.

Heavier precipitation A warmer atmosphere holds—and subsequently dumps—more water. As the planet has warmed by  1.9 degrees Fahrenheit since the preindustrial revolution era, the United States has also become about 4 percent wetter, according to the federal  Climate Science Special Report. The same report says that heavy precipitation events are projected to increase by 50 percent to as much as three times the historical average in just this century. This includes extreme weather like atmospheric rivers, which are air currents that become heavy with water from the tropics. Meanwhile, in regions with significant seasonal snowmelt, hotter temperatures can trigger more rain-on-snow events, with warm rains inducing faster and earlier melting— a phenomenon playing out in the western United States. 

A building and road severely damaged by flooding in Jamestown, Colorado, in 2013

Steve Zumwalt/FEMA

More-frequent hurricanes Climate change is increasing the frequency of our strongest storms, which bring greater rains, including in places not known for flooding. In August 2023, Tropical Storm Hilary—the first storm of its kind to hit the West Coast in 84 years—broke rainfall records in Idaho, Montana, Nevada, and Oregon. Hurricane Harvey, which made landfall as a Category 4 storm in 2017 and soaked Houston homes and businesses with catastrophic floods, was the nation’s wettest storm in nearly 70 years.  Researchers  estimate that Hurricane Harvey dumped as much as 38 percent more rain than it would have without climate change. Just a month after Harvey, Hurricane Maria hit Dominica, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The storm produced the most rainfall in the area of any weather event  since 1956 and exposed the  inadequacy of U.S. policies to respond to disasters.

According to the IPCC,  future hurricanes are expected to be as much as 37 percent wetter near their centers and about 20 percent wetter as much as 60 miles away. In the Atlantic basin, an 80 percent increase in the frequency of Category 4 and 5 hurricanes (the most destructive) is expected over the next 80 years. And it’s not only the most severely rated storms that bring the greatest flood impacts; in fact, the rating system the government uses to categorize the severity of storms is based solely on wind speed, not rainfall—so even unrated storms can unleash lethal amounts of water.

That said, gustier winds can whip up greater storm surges, which are already higher because of sea level rise. It was Hurricane Katrina’s 28-foot storm surge that overwhelmed the levees around New Orleans in 2005. Winds can also increase the destructiveness of waves, causing storm surges to get bigger and penetrate further inland.

Higher seas As ocean temperatures rise and the glaciers and ice sheets melt, global sea levels are rising —and directly contributing to coastal flooding problems. According to the Fourth National Climate Assessment, our oceans are approximately seven to eight inches higher than they were in 1900. The IPCC predicts seas around the world will rise anywhere from just under one foot to more than three and a half feet above 2000 levels by century’s end. NOAA’s projections also show that, due to regional factors such as currents bringing water to coastlines, areas along the East Coast could experience seas rising 2 feet higher as early as 2050. By then, damaging coastal flooding is expected to occur 10 times as often as it does today.

In addition to amplifying storm surges, sea level rise increases high tide flooding, which, according to NOAA, has doubled in the United States over the past 30 years. For example, by 2045, Charleston, South Carolina, could see as many as  180 tidal floods per year , compared with just 11 in 2014.

More than 100 houses burned down in Breezy Point, New York, as floodwaters isolated the community from fire and rescue workers after Hurricane Sandy.

U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Ryan J. Courtade/Released

When flooding inundates a home or community, it upends lives. It’s important to consider  flood preparation before disaster hits by doing things like signing up for alerts, packing an emergency supply kit, and researching flood insurance options.

But the impacts of flooding go far beyond our own homes. Repairing and replacing flood-damaged roads, bridges, utilities, and other public infrastructure carry enormous costs. Between 2007 and 2017, the  National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) paid an average of $2.9 billion per year to cover flood-related losses, with individual years often costing far more. Within two months of Hurricane Ian making landfall in Florida in 2022, the NFIP had received 44,000 flood claims from property owners. These types of estimates leave out the many people who don’t have insurance, who aren’t eligible for government disaster assistance, or who have needs above what government aid will cover. 

Flooding also brings contamination and disease. Floodwaters can carry  raw sewage , leaked toxic chemicals, and runoff from  hazardous waste sites and  factory farms. They can pollute drinking water supplies and cause  eye, ear, skin, and gastrointestinal infections. When floodwaters recede, bacteria and  mold may remain , and residents may suffer from  mental health problems and lost business or wages.

As with many natural hazards, it is most often lower-income people, people experiencing homelessness, the elderly, and  communities of color who suffer the greatest harm. These populations are  least likely to have flood insurance , access to transportation during an evacuation, cash on hand, or the ability to relocate—and the structural inequities of the past and present mean they are more likely to be in harm’s way. In August 2022, flash flooding in Jackson, Mississippi, caused the city’s main water treatment plant to fail, leaving the 150,000 residents of the majority-Black city without safe water to drink, bathe in, or cook with. In the case of  Jackson and many U.S. cities with similarly outdated infrastructure , flood damage was exacerbated by existing issues, including poor oversight, lack of local resources and capacity, and other unjust racial and economic disparities.

Entirely preventing floods isn’t possible. But there are steps that can be taken to lessen their devastation, like  flood-proofing your home ,  taking personal safety precautions , and advocating the federal government to revamp its approaches to flooding, both before and after it occurs.

A neighborhood in Port Arthur, Texas, flooded by Hurricane Harvey in 2017

Staff Sgt. Daniel J. Martinez/U.S. Air National Guard

Updating FEMA's flood maps

Mitigating potential loss from future floods requires knowing where floods are most likely to occur. In the United States, this information is provided by FEMA, which produces maps of the nation’s flood zones. Its NFIP relies on these maps to assess flood risk, determine insurance rates, and establish floodplain management standards.

FEMA flood maps depict the high-, moderate-, and low-risk flood zones of communities nationwide and can be found at  FEMA’s Flood Map Service Center . High-risk areas, often referred to as floodplains, are regions with a 1 percent (1 in 100) chance of being inundated by river or stream floodwaters of a certain magnitude in any given year. (The term  100-year flood refers to this, and does not mean a flood that’s expected to occur just once every 100 years.) But even a 1 in 100 chance of flooding each year equates to about a one in five chance that a home will flood at some point over the life of a 30-year mortgage. And FEMA’s moderate- to low-risk areas aren’t entirely safe from flooding, either: Properties in these areas still account for more than 20 percent of NFIP claims.

Flood risks change as land use and other factors change. That’s why keeping flood maps up-to-date is critical. But despite a requirement that FEMA reassess its maps every five years, nearly  60 percent are out of date—some, by decades. When Hurricane Sandy hit in 2012, for example, the flooding covered an area that was  65 percent larger than the flood-vulnerable area identified by FEMA maps.

FEMA’s maps also typically fail to take into account the effects of global warming, such as sea level rise . Instead, they rely on historical data to determine future flood hazard projections. This can cause officials to designate areas as being “safe” for development today, even when they are at risk of serious floods tomorrow. In 2021, NRDC and the Association of State Floodplain Managers  jointly petitioned FEMA to update its standards to reflect the new climate reality. After all, FEMA is required under law to use the best available science in its maps and standards. Among the petition’s requests: all new or substantially improved structures must be elevated higher than the level of a 100-year flood; all new and revised NFIP floodplain maps must depict how the floodplain will change over time, especially concerning sea level rise; homeowners seeking to retrofit their homes for the new climate reality should have easier access to NFIP funding.

Among other things, FEMA’s floodplains determine how and where homes and other structures will be built, as well as who is required to purchase flood insurance. (Coverage is mandatory if you live in a floodplain and have a federally backed mortgage.) The problem is, once again, that many of FEMA’s mapped floodplains are  inaccurate . For instance, during Hurricane Harvey, nearly three-quarters of Houston’s flood-damaged buildings sat outside of FEMA’s identified high-risk area. According to one NOAA analysis: Greater rainfall has made what used to be a 100-year flood event in Houston, by FEMA’s standards, more like a 25-year event. 

Understanding your home's flood risk

Flooding is a factor in hundreds of billions of dollars of disaster-related property damage in the United States, with many homes being  repeatedly damaged . Just one inch of flooding could cost the average homeowner  $25,000 in damage . But typical homeowners’ and renters’ insurance fails to cover flooding and  less than 4 percent of homeowners have flood coverage. That means the vast majority of Americans must take out loans or pay out of pocket to repair or replace damaged items. 

Finding out if a property is flood-prone  can also be difficult . Many states have no legal requirements that a seller disclose a property’s history of flood damage to a buyer or that a landlord tell a prospective renter. While potential homebuyers should look at FEMA’s flood history maps, there’s a more low-tech option: Introduce yourself to your prospective neighbors and ask them about flooding in the area.

This Highlands, New Jersey, home was elevated prior to Hurricane Sandy and received only minor damage.

Rosanna Arias/FEMA

For residents of repeatedly flooded homes, relocation may be the best option. But a wide array of measures exist to  prevent or reduce flood damage when that’s not possible. These include keeping gutters and drains free of debris; installing a sump pump for crawl spaces and basements; adding check valves in sewer lines to keep floodwater from backing up into the drains of your home; and safeguarding equipment by elevating furnaces, water heaters, electrical systems, generators, and air-conditioning units above flood levels. More drastic retrofits might be needed in areas with regular flooding, including raising the entire structure of a house.

Boosting local resilience

Flood resiliency can come from water-smart improvements to buildings and  green infrastructure , restored wetlands and other natural barriers, updated FEMA maps that reflect new climate realities, and an  overhaul of the NFIP to help more homeowners relocate to higher ground. One promising update is President Biden’s executive action to reinstate the  Federal Flood Risk Management Standard , which includes commonsense measures such as requiring FEMA to rebuild flood-damaged public infrastructure like police stations, schools, and hospitals to be safer. (President Trump had scrapped the standard in 2017.)

According to a Pew poll, nearly 75 percent of U.S. voters support these measures. For one thing, they can save enormous amounts of money:  For every $1 invested in riverine flood mitigation, taxpayers and the federal government save $7 in recovery costs. Moreover, such measures increase the odds that millions more people will stay safe—and dry.

In addition to securing your home, you can help secure your community. Checking in on your neighbors, sharing information, and determining how you might be able to help each other in an emergency are important components of disaster preparedness.

This story was originally published on April 19, 2019, and has been updated with new information and links.

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Question and Answer forum for K12 Students

Paragraph On Flood: Causes, Impacts, And Prevention Measures

Paragraph On Flood: Floods are one of the most common and devastating natural disasters that affect millions of people around the world every year. They can cause immense damage to property and infrastructure, lead to loss of life, and have long-term economic and social impacts. In this article Paragraph On Flood, we will explore the causes of floods, their impacts, and the measures that can be taken to prevent them.

Paragraph On Flood

In this blog Paragraph On Flood, we include the Paragraph On Flood, in 100, 200, 250, and 300 words. Also cover the Paragraph On Flood belonging to classes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and up to the 12th class. You can read more Essay Writing in 10 lines, and about sports, events, occasions, festivals, etc… Paragraph On Flood is also available in different languages.

Causes Of Floods

Floods can be caused by a variety of natural and man-made factors. The most common natural causes include heavy rainfall, snowmelt, hurricanes, and tsunamis. On the other hand, man-made factors such as urbanization, deforestation, and improper land use practices can also contribute to flooding. These factors can lead to soil erosion, sedimentation, and the obstruction of waterways, causing water to overflow and flood the surrounding areas.

Impacts Of Floods

Floods can have significant impacts on the affected communities, including loss of life, displacement, and damage to property and infrastructure. They can also lead to long-term social and economic impacts, such as loss of livelihoods, food shortages, and increased poverty. Floods can also exacerbate the effects of climate change by increasing the risk of waterborne diseases and leading to soil erosion.

Prevention Measures

Several measures can be taken to prevent floods and minimize their impacts. These measures include implementing proper land use practices, building flood-resistant infrastructure, and maintaining and restoring natural habitats such as wetlands and forests. Other measures include early warning systems, flood insurance, and floodplain management strategies. The adoption of these measures requires the cooperation of governments, communities, and individuals to ensure effective flood prevention and management.

In addition to the prevention measures mentioned above, there are several other steps that can be taken to minimize the impacts of floods. One such measure is community preparedness. Communities can prepare themselves for floods by creating emergency plans, identifying safe shelters, and stockpiling emergency supplies. It is also important to educate the public about the risks associated with floods and how to protect themselves and their property.

Another critical aspect of flood prevention is sustainable development. The rapid pace of urbanization has led to the construction of buildings, roads, and other infrastructure on floodplains and other vulnerable areas, increasing the risk of floods. Sustainable development practices can help reduce this risk by promoting the use of green infrastructure, such as rain gardens and bioswales, that can absorb and manage stormwater runoff.

Furthermore, effective flood management requires international cooperation and coordination. Many of the world’s major rivers flow through multiple countries, and the impacts of floods can extend far beyond national borders. International cooperation is essential in developing effective flood management strategies that can protect communities and ecosystems from the devastating impacts of floods.

Finally, it is important to recognize the role of climate change in exacerbating the impacts of floods. As the global climate changes, extreme weather events such as heavy rainfall and storms are becoming more frequent and intense, increasing the risk of floods. Addressing the root causes of climate change through measures such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions and increasing the use of renewable energy sources is critical in reducing the risk of floods.

Floods are a significant threat to our communities and require proactive measures to prevent and mitigate their impacts. It is essential to understand the causes and impacts of floods and take action to prevent them. Through proper land use practices, infrastructure planning, and the adoption of effective management strategies, we can reduce the risk of flooding and minimize its impacts on our society. You can also read about other disasters like earthquake and along with paragraph on flood follow the given below link.

Read More: Earthquake

FAQs On Paragraph On Flood

Question 1. What is flood 300 words?

Answer: Floods are natural disaster that occurs when an area of land that is usually dry becomes submerged in water. They are usually caused by heavy rainfall, melting snow, or the overflow of bodies of water such as rivers, lakes, or oceans. Floods can cause severe damage to infrastructure, crops, and property, and can also result in the loss of human life.

• Floods can be classified into several categories, depending on the severity and duration of the event. Flash floods are sudden and rapid flooding that usually occurs in low-lying areas or areas prone to heavy rainfall. River floods occur when the flow of a river exceeds its capacity and overflows its banks, while coastal floods occur when a storm surge or tidal wave causes water to inundate coastal areas.
• Floods can have severe impacts on communities and the environment. They can cause damage to buildings, roads, and other infrastructure, disrupt transportation and communication networks, and contaminate drinking water sources. Floods can also result in the loss of crops and livestock, leading to food shortages and economic hardship for communities that rely on agriculture.
• In addition to the immediate impacts of floods, they can also have long-term effects on the environment. Floods can erode soil, damage wetlands, and cause the release of pollutants into waterways. They can also disrupt natural ecosystems and lead to the loss of biodiversity.

Question 2. What is a flood in 10 lines? Or a paragraph on the flood?

• A flood is a natural disaster that occurs when an area of land becomes submerged in water.
• It is usually caused by heavy rainfall, melting snow, or the overflow of bodies of water such as rivers, lakes, or oceans.
• Floods can cause severe damage to infrastructure, crops, and property, and can also result in the loss of human life.
• Flash floods are sudden and rapid flooding that usually occurs in low-lying areas or areas prone to heavy rainfall.
• River floods occur when the flow of a river exceeds its capacity and overflows its banks, while coastal floods occur when a storm surge or tidal wave causes water to inundate coastal areas.
• Floods can also have long-term effects on the environment, including soil erosion, damage to wetlands, and the release of pollutants into waterways.
• Mitigation measures such as building flood barriers, implementing early warning systems, and developing evacuation plans can help reduce the impacts of floods.
• Individuals can also take steps to prepare for floods, such as creating emergency kits and securing their homes against water damage.
• Overall, floods are serious natural disasters that require attention and preparation to mitigate their impact on communities and the environment.

Question 3. What is a flood for Class 9?

Answer: For a Class 9 student, floods can be explained as a natural disaster that occurs when an area of land becomes submerged in water due to heavy rainfall, melting snow, or overflowing rivers, lakes, or oceans. Floods can cause severe damage to buildings, infrastructure, crops, and property, and can also result in the loss of human life.

• There are different types of floods, such as flash floods that occur suddenly and rapidly in low-lying areas, river floods when the flow of a river exceeds its capacity and overflows its banks, and coastal floods caused by storm surges or tidal waves.
• Floods can have both immediate and long-term impacts on communities and the environment. The immediate impacts include damage to buildings, roads, and other infrastructure, disruption of transportation and communication networks, and contamination of water sources. The long-term impacts include soil erosion, damage to wetlands, and loss of biodiversity.
• It is important for communities to take measures to mitigate the impacts of floods, such as building flood barriers, implementing early warning systems, and developing evacuation plans. Individuals can also take steps to prepare for floods, such as creating emergency kits and securing their homes against water damage.

Question 4. What is flood short note Class 8?

Answer: For a Class 8 student, a flood can be defined as a natural disaster that occurs when an area of land becomes inundated with water. Floods are usually caused by heavy rainfall, melting snow, or the overflow of bodies of water like rivers, lakes, or oceans.

• Floods can cause significant damage to property, infrastructure, and crops, and can also lead to loss of life. Different types of floods include flash floods, which occur suddenly and without warning, and river floods, which happen when a river overflows its banks due to heavy rain or other factors.
• Floods can also have long-term effects on the environment, such as soil erosion, damage to wetlands, and contamination of water sources. It is important for individuals and communities to take steps to prepare for floods, such as creating emergency kits, securing their homes against water damage, and following evacuation plans.

Question 5. What is flood 100 words?

Answer: A flood is a natural disaster that occurs when an area of land becomes inundated with water. Floods can be caused by heavy rainfall, melting snow, or the overflow of bodies of water such as rivers, lakes, or oceans. Floods can cause significant damage to property, infrastructure, and crops, and can also lead to loss of life. Different types of floods include flash floods, which occur suddenly and without warning, and river floods, which happen when a river overflows its banks due to heavy rain or other factors. Floods can also have long-term effects on the environment, such as soil erosion, damage to wetlands, and contamination of water sources.

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Floods: Stages, Types, Effects, and Prevention

If you’re writing a paper on floods, make sure to check out our “how to prevent flood” essay sample! Here, you’ll find information on types, effects, prevention, and stages of floods. Keep reading to get inspiration for your essay on flood and flood prevention essay!

How to Prevent Flood Essay Introduction

Stages of floods, types of floods, floods have had one beneficial and two adverse effects on mankind, flood risk reduction methods, flood prevention methods, flood prevention essay conclusion.

Floods rank as the most destructive water-related problem that faces mankind. It is also the most regularly occurring natural disaster. While the most flood-prone area in the world is Asia (UNESCO), the U.S has its own share of floods. In fact, it is estimated that whenever the U.S President announces that a particular location in the country is a natural disaster area, the culprit is flooding in 75% of the cases (Pearce & Leib).

A flood refers to a high flow of water that originates from a water body and overflows the usual restrictions and/or covers land that is usually dry. A flood takes place in 5 stages, commonly known as the ‘run off-cycle’ (Pearce et al.).

The first stage involves a period of fair weather when there is no rainfall. There exist low rivers with small dry steams or brooks called river rills, as well as slow seepage from groundwater.

The fair weather reduces water drainage from groundwater into the river rills. This causes the water table to drop, first to a level below the river rill, and then to slowly dry up altogether. The dropping of the water table reestablishes the soil’s underground storage capacity (Pearce et al.).

The second stage of the ‘run off-cycle’ involves steady, light rainfall. The river rills receive some of the light rainfall, causing the water in them to increase and making them flow again. The light rain also falls on vegetation and on the ground {where it is taken in and retained by minor surface depressions and puddles} (Pearce et al.).

The third stage involves an increase in rainfall. The vegetation becomes heavily wetted, while the water collected in the small land depressions and puddles starts to overflow. The increase in rainfall becomes runoff and penetrates the dry soil, which takes in the water freely.

The dry soil soon becomes sodden, and its rate of water absorption slows down. As the rainfall continues, the amount of water exceeds the penetration rate, causing the creation of active surface runoff. This runoff reaches the river rills.

At the same time, increasing the seepage of rainwater into groundwater causes both the water table to rise, as well as the base flow into the river rills to increase. The surface of the water in the river rills rises quickly as a result (Pearce et al.).

The fourth stage begins when the rainfall stops. The river rills are at their peak. The channel storage soon empties as the flood moves downstream. Wet vegetation, ground surface water, and soil moisture are soon dried by evaporation and transpiration.

The penetration of ground surface water into the soil still continues, causing the excess water in the soil to permeate to the water table. This causes the water table to go on rising; it reaches a peak when the river rills return to the bank-full situation (Pearce et al.).

The last stage involves the commencement of returning the stage capacity of the ground, thereby restoring Nature’s unique flood control system. As the river rills descend and are joined by river tributaries, they gather drainage from a widening catchment area. The catchment area decides the quantity of waterborne by various rivers. The flood passes from the headwaters to the lower stream.

The rivers start to intensify and overflow their banks in response to the higher demands on their capacity. The amount of water in all the river tributaries also increases. The water ultimately arrives at a drainage basin where it gets stored in the valley bottom to counter the rise in water discharge (Pearce et al.).

There are five types of floods

River floods occur when water in a river overflows. This usually takes place after winter, or after spring rains or as a result of snowmelt. The water gets poured into a large stream from its draining basin. River floods also take place when a jam is caused by ice or floating fragments of broken materials (Pearce et al.).

Flash floods are caused when an extraordinarily heavy injection of water makes a river overflow its banks continuously for a period of many hours. The water injection may take the form of cloudbursts, torrential rains, thunderstorms, spring thaws, ice jams, dam bursts, or spillover of drainage basins. The huge amount of water gets directed into a small drainage basin.

Topography, state of soil {low permeability or heavy saturation}, anchor convections, and impervious ground surfaces also contribute on a lesser scale. Such floods are overwhelming, involving swirling waters that reach heights of 20 feet or more with hardly any warning. They are so powerful that they uproot trees, unearth boulders, demolish buildings, tear down bridges, and create new channels of water (Pearce et al.).

Ocean floods are caused when powerful offshore winds force water from an ocean on to the land. The low barometric pressure in such winds makes the ocean level rise above the coastal lowlands, leading to the production of storm surges.

The increase in rainfall in such coastal areas {which usually are barrier islands, swamps, or plains having several rivers flowing through them} exacerbates flooding in the adjoining low lying areas. The overflowing ocean water next races to mouths of river channels and inundates the area with water. Avenues of escape can be severed and shut out by high water (Pearce et al.).

Volcanic eruption-resulting floods are caused by two factors, both associated with volcanic eruptions: melting of snow/ice, and heavy rains. Such floods take place suddenly and can be massive. Iceland and Ecuador have experienced several melt-water floods brought on by volcanic heating.

Such floods cause more destruction than other flood types because they carry along with a huge quantity of sediment (for example, when Mount Saint Helens erupted in 1980, it caused massive mudflows as well as flash floods) (Pearce et al.).

Urban floods occur in areas where rain-absorbing land is transformed from fields and woodlands into roads and parking areas. Such urbanization renders the land incapable of absorbing rainfall, resulting in runoff 2 to 6 times more than what would take place in natural terrain. Urban flooding transforms streets into fast-moving bodies of water while building basements become death-traps as they rapidly fill with water (Pearce et al.).

Effects of Floods

Floods have resulted in a benefit to the ecosystem as well as to human activities. The wetlands created in floodplains promote the diversity of plant and animal life. Fertile floodplains are the primary mainstay of countries – especially developing nations – that provide food security while also creating and maintaining means of livelihood for mankind.

Not only do the floodplains encourage low-tech agricultural techniques, but they also provide employment for millions of people {the U.N estimates that nearly 1 billion people, or 16% of the world’s population, live on floodplains}. This aspect has caused significant economic development in places at risk from floods (UNESCO).

The first adverse effect is a huge loss of human lives (UNESCO). Floods are rated as the premier killer of mankind as far as natural disasters are concerned (Pearce et al.). The U.N estimates that each year, around 520 million individuals all over the world are affected by floods (UNESCO), out of whom nearly 1.6 million lose their lives (Pearce et al.).

While floods have been widespread all over the world, Asia has suffered the most; it had 1,200 floods during the last century, which caused 11.6 million deaths (UNESCO). In the U.S, floods caused the death of nearly 10,000 during the last century; as many as 80% of them perished in vehicles (Pearce et al.).

The second adverse effect is massive economic losses. Destruction of property and infrastructure by floods has been immense. It is estimated that with the exception of droughts, nearly 90% of worldwide destruction caused by natural disasters is perpetrated either directly or indirectly by floods. The U.S bears a $ 3.1 billion flood-related cost every year (Pearce et al.). Asia suffered economic losses in the region of $ 207 billion during the last century (UNESCO).

Despite the devastation caused by floods, as well as the increasing knowledge of mankind to predict the onset of this natural disaster, the number of people risking their lives to floods goes on increasing.

This is on account of 6 factors: increasing urbanization, rising population in flood- risk locations, land use transformations, climate change, heightening sea levels (UNESCO) and the heavy cost of building and maintaining flood protection frameworks {which discourages communities from putting forward proposals to tackle floods} (Pearce et al.).

It is important that all flood risk reduction methods be aimed at creating the required capacity to tackle these six factors (UNESCO).

In the U.S, river flood forecasts are regularly compiled by the National Weather Service {NWS} river-forecast centers and made available to the people through nationwide NWS offices. Such forecasts are prepared after meticulously creating and calibrating complicated mathematical models of rivers in the U.S reacting to rainfall and snowmelt.

When flooding takes place, the NWS centers compile forecasts on vital factors like the height of flood crests, the day and time when it is anticipated that the river will pour over its banks, and the day and time when it is anticipated that the river water will retreat to within its confining banks (Pearce et al.).

In addition to local and national schemes, countries all over the world can seek the help of the U.N’s Integrated Flood Management {IFM}. IFM is an initiative that considers all risk-based aspects before formulating flood management solutions after detailed consultations with all involved stakeholders (UNESCO).

There are four methods of preventing floods. The first method is to construct dikes and levees to block water from overflowing on to land. Dikes, the world’s premier flood protection technique, was initially constructed in the upper floodplain areas but were later built higher and nearer the rivers.

The building of levees results in an increase in the flow speed of water through the restricted areas, thereby increasing scouring and reducing the deposit of impurities. The second method is to construct dams. These structures, which cut off flood peaks, have artificially built reservoir basins into which floodwater is stored, thereby blocking it from causing floods in the rivers.

This method is particularly popular in the U.S, whereas many as 50,000 dams have been built across almost all major rivers in the country. The third method is the natural channel advancements.

The overall aim is to increase channel discharge capacity by clearing vegetation and executing functions like cutoffs, straightening, expanding, and deepening.

This method is not popular because it does not foster aquatic life in the water body. The last method is the floodwater diversion. This involves digging ditches to create a channel into which floodwater is directed. This method is an old one that is not popular nowadays as it is greatly dependent on natural topography (Pearce et al.).

Given the huge volume and excellent quality of flood-related knowledge and flood prevention information, it is surprising that this natural disaster still continues to plague the world regularly, leaving an ever-increasing trail of death and destruction in its wake.

The main cause of this is the unrestrained movement of people into flood-prone areas -,, particularly in developing countries.

While acknowledging that such movement is dictated by the necessity to survive, the people must be made to realize that flood warnings should be heeded, and basic recommended precautions should be taken properly and serious. The only solution in the present scenario is to conduct and maintain a strong, widespread, and well supported educational campaign aimed at preventing more losses caused by floods.

“ International Flood Initiative .” UNESCO. (N.d).

Pearce, Katy & Leib, Deborah. “Floods & Society.” University of Michigan. 1998.

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Essay on Flood

Students are often asked to write an essay on Flood in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Flood

Introduction.

A flood is a natural disaster that occurs when water overflows onto dry land. This can happen due to excessive rainfall, melting snow, or dam failure.

Causes of Floods

Effects of floods.

Floods can cause severe damage. They can destroy homes, crops, and infrastructure. People may lose their possessions and, in severe cases, their lives.

Prevention and Control

We can prevent floods by building dams and levees. It’s also important to maintain a healthy environment, as deforestation can lead to floods.

250 Words Essay on Flood

Floods represent one of the most destructive natural disasters, having catastrophic effects on human life, infrastructure, and the environment. They are typically caused by excessive rainfall, rapid snowmelt, or dam breakage and can occur in virtually any geographical location.

Causes and Types of Floods

The primary cause of floods is the excessive accumulation of water, either from heavy precipitation or from a blockage in the water flow. There are several types of floods, including river floods, coastal floods, and flash floods. River floods occur when the capacity of a river channel is exceeded, while coastal floods are caused by a storm surge or high tide. Flash floods, on the other hand, are sudden and extreme floods usually caused by heavy rainfall.

Impacts of Floods

The impacts of floods are far-reaching. They can cause loss of life, property damage, and displacement of people. Infrastructure such as roads, bridges, and buildings can be destroyed, disrupting daily life and economic activities. Additionally, floods can lead to waterborne diseases and contaminate drinking water supplies.

Flood Management and Mitigation

Effective flood management involves a combination of structural and non-structural measures. Structural measures include constructing dams, levees, and floodwalls. Non-structural measures involve land use planning, flood forecasting, and public education.

While floods are natural phenomena, human activities often exacerbate their impacts. Therefore, understanding the causes and effects of floods and implementing effective flood management strategies is crucial for reducing their destructive potential and ensuring sustainable development.

500 Words Essay on Flood

The causes of floods.

The primary cause of floods is excessive rainfall, particularly when it falls over saturated soil. The water table, already high due to prior precipitation, cannot absorb more water, leading to surface runoff that ultimately causes flooding. Rapid snowmelt and ice jams in rivers can also lead to floods, with the sudden influx of water overwhelming the river’s capacity.

Human activities, such as deforestation and urbanization, also contribute to flooding. Deforestation reduces the land’s capacity to absorb water, increasing surface runoff. Urbanization, with its concrete landscapes, limits the soil’s ability to absorb water, enhancing the risk of flash floods.

The Impact of Floods

Flood management.

Effective flood management requires a combination of structural and non-structural measures. Structural measures include the construction of levees, reservoirs, and floodways to control floodwaters. Non-structural measures involve land use planning, flood forecasting and warning systems, and public education about flood risks and responses.

That’s it! I hope the essay helped you.

If you’re looking for more, here are essays on other interesting topics:

Happy studying!

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Flood Essay

Floods are natural disasters that occur when a body of water, such as a river or ocean, overflows its banks and spills onto the surrounding land. This can happen for a variety of reasons, including heavy rainfall, melting snow, and storms . Here are a few sample essays on floods.

100 Words Essay on Floods

Floods are naturally occurring phenomena that are caused due to overflowing water bodies. A flood can be just a small occurrence that can cause some travel issues to highly destructive events that can cause significant damage to homes, businesses, and infrastructure. In addition to physical damage, floods can also lead to loss of life and can have long-term impacts on the affected communities.

To protect against floods, people can take steps such as building floodwalls and levees and elevating homes and other structures in flood-prone areas. It is also important for individuals to be prepared for floods by having an emergency plan in place and staying informed about potential flooding in their area.

200 Words Essay On Floods

Floods are natural disasters that occur due to overflowing water sources like ponds, oceans and rivers. The reasons for the occurrence of floods can be heavy rainfall, loose soil, melting of snow, breaking of dams etc.

Impact | The impacts of floods can be far-reaching and long-lasting. In addition to physical damage to homes, businesses, and infrastructure, floods can also lead to loss of life. Floodwaters can carry dangerous debris and pollutants, making them a health hazard for people and animals. Floods can also have economic impacts, as they can disrupt transportation and commerce, and can destroy crops and other sources of food.

Prevention | People living nearby water bodies take preventative measures to reduce the impact of flood damage. Building elevated homes, planting more trees to soak up an extra amount of water, having an escape plan in case of emergencies etc. It is also important for individuals to be prepared for floods by having an emergency plan in place and staying informed about potential flooding in their area. In the event of a flood, it is important to follow the advice of local authorities and evacuate if instructed.

Overall, floods are serious natural disasters that can have significant impacts on communities. By taking steps to protect against floods and being prepared for them, people can reduce the risks and impacts of this type of disaster.

500 Words Essay on Floods

Floods are a common natural disaster that occurs when excess water overflows onto land that is normally dry. This can happen for a number of reasons, including heavy rainfall, snowmelt, and coastal storms.

Types Of Floods

There are several different types of floods, each with its own characteristics and potential impacts. Flash floods, for example, are caused by sudden, intense rainfall and can happen within minutes or hours. They can be particularly dangerous because they often catch people off guard and can lead to flash flooding in urban areas.

On the other hand, river floods are caused by water flowing over the banks of rivers and streams. These floods can be more gradual, giving people time to evacuate and prepare, but they can also be very destructive.

Coastal floods, also known as storm surges, are caused by strong winds and high tides associated with coastal storms, such as hurricanes. These floods can be extremely destructive, as they can cause not only flooding but also strong winds and waves that can damage buildings and infrastructure.

Biggest Floods Recorded On Earth

One of the biggest floods in history was the 1931 China floods , also known as the Central China Floods . These floods were caused by heavy rainfall and the collapse of the Banqiao Dam. The floods affected an estimated 54 million people and resulted in the deaths of 145,000 people.

Another major flood was the 1993 Mississippi River Flood , which affected parts of the United States, including Missouri, Illinois, and Kentucky . The floods were caused by heavy rainfall and resulted in the deaths of 50 people and caused billions of dollars in damages.

In 1998, the Yangtze River Flood in China also caused widespread destruction. The floods, which were the result of heavy rainfall, affected millions of people and resulted in the deaths of over 4,000 people. The floods also caused billions of dollars in damages.

Another recent and devastating flood was the 2010 Pakistan floods, which affected the Indus River Basin in Pakistan. The floods, which were caused by heavy monsoon rains, affected an estimated 20 million people and resulted in the deaths of over 1,700 people.

Forest To Prevent Floods

Forests play a critical role in preventing floods. Trees and other vegetation in forests can act as natural barriers which absorb water. Hence, reducing the speed of flowing water and thereby reducing the risk of flooding.

When it rains, the leaves and branches of trees absorb a significant amount of water. The roots of trees also help to hold the soil in place, preventing it from eroding and being carried away by the water. This helps to reduce the amount of water that flows over the surface and into rivers and streams, lowering the risk of flooding.

In addition to absorbing water, forests also help to regulate the flow of water by releasing it slowly into rivers and streams. This helps to prevent sudden, large increases in water levels that can lead to flooding. Trees and other vegetation can help to reduce the force of the water and protect against erosion, which can help to minimise the damage caused by floods.

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Floods, explained

Floods are among Earth's most common–and most destructive–natural hazards.

There are few places on Earth where flooding is not a concern. Any area where rain falls is vulnerable to floods, though rain is not the only cause.

How floods form

A flood occurs when water inundates land that's normally dry, which can happen in a multitude of ways.

Excessive rain, a ruptured dam or levee , rapid melting of snow or ice, or even an unfortunately placed beaver dam can overwhelm a river, spreading over the adjacent land, called a flood plain . Coastal flooding occurs when a large storm or tsunami causes the sea to surge inland .

Most floods take hours or even days to develop, giving residents time to prepare or evacuate. Others generate quickly and with little warning. So-called flash floods can be extremely dangerous , instantly turning a babbling brook or even a dry wash into rushing rapids that sweep everything in their path downstream.

Climate change is increasing the risk of floods worldwide, particularly in coastal and low-lying areas, because of its role in extreme weather events and rising seas . The increase in temperatures that accompanies global warming can contribute to hurricanes that move more slowly and drop more rain , funneling moisture into atmospheric rivers like the ones that led to heavy rains and flooding in California in early 2019.

Meanwhile, melting glaciers and other factors are contributing to a rise in sea levels that has created long-term, chronic flooding risks for places ranging from Venice, Italy to the Marshall Islands . More than 670 U.S. communities will face repeated flooding by the end of this century , according to a 2017 analysis; it's happening in more than 90 coastal communities already.

Dramatic pictures reveal Venice flooding

Impacts of flooding

Floods cause more than $40 billion in damage worldwide annually, according to the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development . In the U.S., losses average close to $8 billion a year. Death tolls have increased in recent decades to more than 100 people a year . In China's Yellow River Valley some of the world's worst floods have killed millions of people.

When floodwaters recede, affected areas are often blanketed in silt and mud. The water and landscape can be contaminated with hazardous materials such as sharp debris, pesticides, fuel, and untreated sewage. Potentially dangerous mold blooms can quickly overwhelm water-soaked structures.

Residents of flooded areas can be left without power and clean drinking water, leading to outbreaks of deadly waterborne diseases like typhoid, hepatitis A, and cholera. ( Learn here about flood preparation and safety tips .)

Flood prevention

Flooding, particularly in river floodplains, is as natural as rain and has been occurring for millions of years. Famously fertile floodplains such as the Mississippi Valley, the Nile River Valley in Egypt, and the Tigris-Euphrates in the Middle East have supported agriculture for millennia because annual flooding has left tons of nutrient-rich silt deposits behind. Humans have increased the risk of death and damage by increasingly building homes, businesses, and infrastructure in vulnerable floodplains.

To try to mitigate the risk, many governments mandate that residents of flood-prone areas purchase flood insurance and set construction requirements aimed at making buildings more flood resistant—with varying degrees of success.

Massive efforts to mitigate and redirect inevitable floods have resulted in some of the most ambitious engineering efforts ever seen, including New Orleans's extensive levee system and massive dikes and dams in the Netherlands. Such efforts continue today as climate change continues to put pressure on vulnerable areas. Some flood-prone cities in the U.S. are even going beyond federal estimates and setting higher local standards for protection .

Related Topics

• FLOOD CONTROL
• CLIMATE CHANGE

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Essay on Flood

List of essays on flood in english, essay on flood – essay 1 (150 words), essay on flood: reasons, effects and conclusion – essay 2 (250 words), essay on flood in india – essay 3 (300 words), essay on flood: causes, consequences and prevention – essay 4 (400 words), essay on flood: types, causes and adverse effects – essay 5 (500 words), essay on flood: with causes, mitigating steps and warning system – essay 6 (600 words), essay on flood: with causes – essay 7 (750 words), essay on flood in india – essay 8 (1000 words).

Introduction:

Flood, simply put is an overflow of water from several sources. The nature of the world is to have dry land and water. When water gets on dry land in large quantity flood is said to have occurred.

Causes of Flood:

There are several events that can lead to a flood.

A few of them are highlighted below:

1. Heavy rain pours.

2. Melting ice and snow.

3. Rising sea levels and the overflowing river.

4. Bad drainage systems.

How Flood Affects our Environment:

A flood is by far a negative occurrence. Heavy flooding can have a damaging effect on our environment and the infrastructures in it. First, they can destroy houses and make them inhabitable. Also, they can remove sand from farmland making it difficult to grow crops. Aside from the above, flooding also contaminates clean water causing diseases and ailments.

Conclusion:

Governments around the world can reduce the risk of flooding by building a solid drainage system. We as individuals could also help by stopping drainage blockage.

Any dry land filled by excess water is called flood. It is a natural calamity caused due to several factors.

Reasons for Flood:

The reasons for floods can be natural and unnatural caused due to human activities. When there is excessive rainfall in river banks and coastal areas, there is an increase in water level which leads to overflow of water into the nearby dry land. Also, natural calamities like earthquakes cause Tsunami in oceans which leads to flooding of lands close to beaches. In heavily populated cities, due to congested buildings and roadways, flooding happens as there is not enough room for water to drain. In such cases clogged drainages lead to even more flooding of the area.

Global warming has resulted in the melting of glaciers which increase water levels of rivers and flooding of river banks. Deforestation also plays a major role in flooding.

Effects of Flood:

Floods cause large scale destruction to life and property. Buildings, roads and bridges are heavily damaged. Vast acres of crops are destroyed. Arable lands turn barren and clogged with salts. Countless homes and cattle get washed away. All electronic and digital communication seizes. Many lives are lost. And it does not stop there. Post flood, there is a huge risk in the spreading of water borne diseases. Scarcity of food and basic necessities arises. On the whole, floods cause multiple hardships and turn the livelihood of affected people upside-down.

Effective weather forecasting systems are to be maintained by the Government for timely intimation and evacuation of flood prone areas which will greatly help in keeping the many losses due to floods in check.

Flood is a natural disaster that involves overflowing of water over a region of land that is dry under usual conditions. It submerges the area with water. They are the most common kind of weather-related disasters and are a costly hazard. The level of flood can vary a lot – from a few inches to a level that goes up to meters high like a roof level of a house.

The causes of floods are many. They can happen during heavy rains when the drainage system is unable to handle the amount of rain fall. It can also happen even if low levels of rain occur continuously for many days. Floods can occur when the snow melts as temperature changes and it can result in bulk movement of water in the plains. Rivers can overflow sometimes and create flood in the neighboring regions. They can also be a result of breaking of dam which can flood the nearby areas.

There has been increase in the frequency of floods recently. Because of global warming, the average temperature of sea has increased significantly. This has led to higher rate of tropical storms in the Caribbean. It is also responsible for increase in sea level because of melting of ice caps and glaciers.

Floods cause large-scale loss to life and great damage to properties. Floods cause severe damage to agricultural regions of the affected area. There is loss of life of humans as well as animals. People and the government both suffer from loss in financial terms. Re-building of affected areas takes a lot of time and money.

In India, there are many regions which are affected by floods. Some of these are the Gangetic plains, coastal Andhra Pradesh and Orissa, Brahmaputra valley and South Gujarat. Within this year, more than 70 lakh people were affected by floods in India.

Flood is one of the recurring natural disasters which is an outcome of above average rainfall and accumulation of excessive water in every living area. Floods may occur due to overflow of water from the reservoirs or due to heavy down pour of rain in places where the drainage systems are not properly maintained.

Water may look so harmless and peaceful until the large quantities termed Floods harms us.

Common Causes of Flood:

Some of the common causes of Flooding are Heavy Rains, Overflowing Rains, Broken Dams, Urban Drainage Basins, Storm Surges & Tsunami’s, Channels with steep sides, lack of vegetation and melting of snow and Ice. Although the causes of floods are varied, most of the causes can be managed if not prevented.

Global Warming and Floods:

Another primary factor of Flood is increase in the atmospheric temperature i.e., Global Warming. Heating up of earth’s surface can lead to melting of ice glaciers and ice caps which leads to the rise in sea level thereby leading to overflowing floods in the coastal regions. Global Warming brings instability in the climatic condition of the earth, where one part of the world experiences floods and the other goes through drought.

Consequences of Flood:

Floods mostly disrupt the normalcy of living things on the planet. Floods are a great threat to the living things; floods also make way for mosquitoes to thrive thereby leading to all communicable diseases such as malaria, Dengue etc. Another impact of floods is loss of drinking water . Floods also lead to power cuts, damage of crops and soil erosion. Floods can also have an economic backslide, thus putting the country at risk.

Preventing Floods:

Some of the measures that can be done to prevent Floods are:

i. To ensure the meteorological departments are well equipped to provide flood warnings to the indicated zones.

ii. Flood resilient homes with efficiency to waterproof homes and moving electric sockets which moves higher as the flood rises.

iii. Protecting wetlands and planting trees systematically can help alleviate the direct floods.

iv. Stop encroaching of river beds and allowing the rivers to take its natural course can drastically bring down floods.

Floods can be scary, but it is in the hands of human beings to ensure it doesn’t impact our daily life. Water storing areas such as ponds, lakes and other water reservoirs should be maintained. Floods can be avoided by improving the soil conditions thereby allowing easy water absorption. Flood barriers can be used as a defense during Flood crisis.

Floods can either occur naturally or they can be facilitated by environmental factors that destruct the flow of water. Flood incidences have increased due to global warming. Global warming is an adverse effect of environmental pollution that causes a rise in temperatures on the earth’s surface. Global warming is associated with intense climatic changes like heavy storms, snowing and raised sea water levels. These changes in climate contribute to flooding. A flood is the spilling of water on dry land surfaces and causes it to submerge. It occurs when water overflows from the water bodies beyond its usual boundaries. Floods are destructive to the environment.

Types of Floods:

There are three main types of floods. Surge floods are floods that occur in the coast regions due to surges and tidal changes that occur in the sea or ocean. Hurricanes and storm surges on the sea or ocean can cause minor, moderate or major floods. The extent or severity of the floods are determined by the strength, size, speed and directions of the surges. Surge flood are usually severe and massively destructive.

Another type of floods is fluvial floods that occurs due to overflow of rivers. Rivers overflow due to heavy rains that increase water levels in rivers beyond its capacity therefore resulting in floods. Heavy snowing can also cause fluvial floods when the ice melts. Fluvial floods are risky when dams are involved because the increased levels of water in rivers creates immense pressure that cause increase pressure on the walls of dams and cause breakage which results in excessive flooding and environmental destruction.

The other type of floods is pluvial floods. Pluvial floods are caused by surface water as a result of heavy rainfall. Pluvial floods are destructive because they disrupt the drainage systems and cause an overflow which affects structures. Pluvial flooding occurs together with surge floods and fluvial floods. Although pluvial flooding does not involve a lot of water, it causes massive destruction of the environment and the infrastructure.

Causes of Floods:

Floods occur naturally due to some environmental factors. Heavy rains can cause an overflow of water form water bodies. Breakage of water body boundaries like riverbanks or walls of dams. Catastrophes like tsunamis and surges in storms cause heavy flooding. During heavy rains the lack of vegetation on the surface of the earth.

Adverse Effects of Floods:

Foods are destructive in nature and have negative impacts on the environment and the ecosystem. Floods cause death of living things and humans. Destruction of property and infrastructure negatively affects the economy of the region affected and economic activities are at a standstill due to disrupted livelihoods. Migrations from areas that are prone to floods is common, which results in overpopulation in urban areas. Financial constraints are experienced due to the rehabilitations from flood destructions. Prevention of floods that result from natural causes is a challenge.

In conclusion, it is evident that floods are destructive. The adverse effects of floods affects normal livelihood and the environment.

Flood is one of the natural calamities which is known to wreck a lot of havoc. There are so many different instances wherein floods are known to damage the whole area and bring massive loss of life and property as well.

Let us check further into the possible causes of flood and how we can eradicate it too.

The Causes of Flood:

Of course, there can be a lot of different cases of floods. Some of the key ones among them are as follows.

Heavy rains: owing to climate changes, many a times, it so happen that it rains torrentially. If the rain is much above normal, it can lead to flooding.

Broken dams: Dams help in keeping the water level in check. If the dams get broken sometimes, it is likely to lead to flood.

Tsunami: Natural calamities like tsunami is likely to create problems of flood and can bring massive loss of life and property.

Global warming: Owing to the increase in global temperature, the ice cap is melting and the increased level of water in the river bed is going to cause a flood.

Of course, there can be a lot of other reasons too which leads to flood and it is important to keep an eye on the water levels to issue a warning well in time.

The Mitigating Steps:

Now that we know the key causes which leads to flood, let us focus on some of the best mitigation measures which you can take to steer clear of this problem.

Flood Warning System:

This is by far the most important thing which one needs to do. It is important to have a sound flood warning system in place. When you have a dedicated system, it can help warn people who can move to higher altitude or take the right steps.

Restore Rivers to their Natural Courses:

Owing to the excessive development work which we have been carried out and harming the environment, too many rivers have diverted from their natural courses. This is another important reason for excessive flood. So, the right thing to do is to help in restoring the rivers to their natural course as it may prevent flood.

The Global Warming Remedial:

Action must be taken to cure the problem of global warming as it is definitely the cause of too many natural disasters. By choosing to cut the level of air and water pollution and minimizing the use of non bio-degradable products, we may be able to directly or indirectly help in controlling the problem of flood and its aftermath.

Modern Day Construction:

While flood is a natural calamity which may sometime come unannounced, it is important that we construct buildings in accordance with the modern technical advancements. The buildings should be so made that they are above the flood levels and they should be sturdy enough to withstand flood as well.

So, these are some of the important points which you should keep in mind. While some of them are ways by which we can prevent the implication and aftermath of flood, a few of them would help in preventing its occurrence as well.

Whenever any calamity occurs, it is important to do your bit to create awareness. The kind of destruction which can happen is whopping. By knowing about it a little ahead of time helps people be better prepared for it.

The bottom line remains the fact that we should all try and minimize the negative impact we are having on the environment. Doing this will ensure that we will be able to curtail the frequency of natural disasters like flood.

Flood is simply defined as the overflow of a very huge quantity of water that covers a very large area of land and leads to the destruction of land and properties and sometimes lives in the areas that are affected. A lot of regions in the world experience flooding every year. A flood basically occurs when there is excessive rain and there is no proper or good drainage system. The amount of flood is different from place to place and the extent of destruction also varies. For the overflow of water to be classified as flood, the area of land affected has to be mostly dry. Flooding can also happen as a result of water overflowing from bodies of water like lakes, oceans and rivers. Floods cause mass destruction. The effects and destruction caused by flood can take many years to fix and repair.

There are a lot of causes of flood; a few of them are discussed below:

1. Heavy Rains:

As discussed earlier, flood is mostly caused by an extended period of rain. This can happen if the quantity of rainfall is a lot more than the capacity of the drainage system. Flood can also be a result of high intensity rainfall in a short period of time.

2. Snow Melting:

Mountains that were covered with snow in the season of winter start to melt once temperature begins to rise. The sudden rise of the temperature causes the snow to melt and this leads to the massive movement of a lot of water to the plains and lands around. If the area receiving the water does not have a proper and good drainage system that will help in getting rid of the large quantity of water, there is going to be flooding. Flood that is caused by snow melting is also called a snowmelt flood.

3. Dam Breaking:

Dams are constructed to be able to hold the water that is flowing downwards from an area of land that is higher. The energy of the water can be used to turn and power propellers that can be used for the generation and creation of electricity. The dam can sometimes break when they can’t hold a large quantity of water and this causes the areas nearby to experience flooding. Sometimes, excessive water can be released intentionally by the dam to stop the dam from breaking which also results in flood but the flood from the intentional release of water isn’t as harsh as that from the dam breaking.

4. Water Bodies Overflowing:

Rivers and other water bodies can overflow sometimes and this leads to a situation that is flood like in the areas nearby. The areas that are low lying and are near the water body are the ones that are affected the most during the periods of water overflowing downstream.

5. Coastal Region Winds:

Hurricanes and very strong winds have the ability to carry sea water into coastal lands that are dry and this is a serious cause of flood. The coastal regions can experience severe damage and destruction. Tsunamis and hurricanes are widely known causes of serious devastation to areas of coastal lands.

Apart from all of the causes of flood discussed above, it is very important to note that the major cause of flood is global warming. The frequency and rate of flood has drastically increased recently. Researchers have said that the average temperature of the sea has wildly increased because of global warming and it has led to the increased sternness and rate of storms that are tropical in and around the Caribbean. The storms are said to have caused the countries in the region experiencing heavy rainfall. Global warming causes an increase in the atmosphere’s temperature and also causes the ice caps and glaciers to melt which in turn causes flood in a lot of regions. Global warming is believed to have a very major effect on the ice caps at the poles and it is believed that the situation is only going to get worse with time.

Overall, the climatic conditions of the earth have gone through a lot of very major changes and it is believed that global warming is the main cause of all of the change. It is believed that global warming is the reason why there is extreme drought in some places and serious flood in other places. Even though there isn’t much we can do about the glaciers melting or rain, we can do our part by building very good and reliable drainage systems that can handle water.

What is a flood? In normal terms, the excess availability of water in a region then it can usually hold is called flood. Floods are usually heard of it in news and through channels as every year, large portions of India are drastically affected by floods. It is mainly during the monsoon season with the onset of rain, we hear of different floods and the havoc they have caused to humans, animals and plant life. It is, therefore; very important to understand what floods are all about?

Types of Floods and their Causes:

Flood is not just the excess rainfall we talk about. There is a lot more to it. For instance, there are Flash Floods in which there is a sudden heavy downpour due to a cloudburst and the entire area is flooded within minutes. In India, areas in the states of Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir and Uttarakhand witness occurrence of flash flood every year. Similarly, we have river floods in which the areas around a river are flooded due to the swelling of the river. Some parts in Delhi witness river flood every year due to the overflowing of the river Yamuna due to excessive rains and the excess flow of water from the Hathnikund Dam. Another type of floods is the inland flooding . In the case of inland flooding, the area witnessing a rainfall get flooded with the roads and lanes all filled with water. This happens usually when proper drainage system is not in place or is inefficient due to severe blockages which obstruct the flow of water and leading to flooding of lanes and roads in the city. Again, Delhi and Mumbai are cities which see such floods even after an hour of continuous rainfall. People living in coastal areas are prone to coastal floods . These floods are usually caused by high tides or Tsunami which bring huge volumes of water on the land thereby flooding it. Another reason for coastal floods is global warming due which the rise in sea level temperatures has led to the subsequent rise in water level in coastal areas. Coastal areas of Kerala, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Orissa witness such floods every year.

Deadliest Floods in Indian History:

India witness floods every year in different states. In fact, some regions are sure to be flooded with the onset of monsoon season. However, there have been occurrences of the flood which have caused massive destruction and hence are termed as the deadliest floods. Hence there is a need to know about them so as to understand and analyse what can be done in order to minimise such destruction in future years.

Deadly floods are a common occurrence in India after every few years. One of the deadliest floods in recent times was the flood in Gujarat in the year 1979 in the Machhu Dam-II. The Machhu Dam-II flopped on Aug. 11, 1979, discharging the full power of the Macchu River on the town of Morbi. The flood thus created in western India caused somewhere around 1,335 deaths, as per the Press Trust of India at the time.

Another of the deadliest floods in India is the one that shook Bihar in the year 1987 in the Kosi River. In any case, the Kosi River is prone to floods and is flooded almost every year. However, this year was particularly exceptional. The most decimating surge in Bihar’s history happened in 1987, when an avalanche obstructed the Bhote Kosi River, making it surge and crush more than 1.7 million homes. As per the statistics of the state, government flooding led to the death of 1,399 individuals and 5,302 animals.

The Tsunami that struck coastal India in the year 2004 was another such disaster which engulfed a number of lives. An extent 9.0 quake under the Indian Ocean on Dec. 26, 2004, set off a tidal wave that crushed southern India. As per the Government statistics 10,749 individuals died, 5,640 went missing and 2.79 million people were affected by the wave. It likewise devastated 11,827 hectares of products and demolished the occupation of 300,000 fishermen.

The Recent Kerala and Kedarnath Floods:

The most noticeably bad climate-related floods in India’s history happened in June 2013, when a few days of overwhelming precipitation activated blaze surges and avalanches in the northern territory of Uttarakhand. The downpour struck amid the bustling visitor season in Uttarakhand when a huge number of Hindu pilgrims rush to the region to visit its memorable sanctuaries. The rain happened some time before the start of rainstorm season, getting numerous off guard. An expected 4,094 individuals died and about 1 million were influenced by the catastrophe in Uttarakhand and neighbouring Himachal Pradesh, the worst affected being the region around Kedarnath. The military was brought in to evacuate around 100,000 people from rocky parts of the state, where they had turned out to be caught by the avalanches.

The recent floods in Kerala are another perfect example of how human activities have led to calling of nature’s ire in different forms such as floods. Had it there been a proper drainage system with no blockages, Kerala would not have witnessed such a massive flood.

The Need for Action:

We must not forget that older civilisations emerged around rivers and seas only and they just vanished with time due to the ever-rising water level on the earth. With the recent back to back occurrences in Kedarnath and Kerala, it is high time the Government as well all of us sit down and think what harm we have done to nature. The blooming of industrial units with no waste management in place, the inefficient drainage system and the careless attitude of both the Government and the people are all collectively responsible for these disasters. Not all disasters can be avoided, but, at least measures can be taken to minimise their impact or at least the ones caused by own carelessness can surely be avoided. It is for own good and for the benefit of future generations that we all do our bit to protect the life on earth from the backlash of nature.

Flood , Flood in India , Natural Disasters

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flood , high-water stage in which water overflows its natural or artificial banks onto normally dry land, such as a river inundating its floodplain . The effects of floods on human well-being range from unqualified blessings to catastrophes . The regular seasonal spring floods of the Nile River prior to construction of the Aswān High Dam , for example, were depended upon to provide moisture and soil enrichment for the fertile floodplains of its delta . The uncontrolled floods of the Yangtze River (Chang Jiang) and the Huang He in China , however, have repeatedly wrought disaster when these rivers habitually rechart their courses. Uncontrollable floods likely to cause considerable damage commonly result from excessive rainfall over brief periods of time, as, for example, the floods of Paris (1658 and 1910), of Warsaw (1861 and 1964), of Frankfurt am Main (1854 and 1930), and of Rome (1530 and 1557). Potentially disastrous floods may, however, also result from ice jams during the spring rise, as with the Danube River (1342, 1402, 1501, and 1830) and the Neva River (in Russia, 1824); from storm surges such as those of 1099 and 1953 that flooded the coasts of England, Belgium, and the Netherlands; and from tsunamis , the mountainous sea waves caused by earthquakes, as in Lisbon (1755) and Hawaii ( Hilo , 1946).

Floods can be measured for height, peak discharge , area inundated, and volume of flow. These factors are important to judicious land use, construction of bridges and dams, and prediction and control of floods. Common measures of flood control include the improvement of channels, the construction of protective levees and storage reservoirs, and, indirectly, the implementation of programs of soil and forest conservation to retard and absorb runoff from storms.

The discharge volume of an individual stream is often highly variable from month to month and year to year. A particularly striking example of this variability is the flash flood , a sudden, unexpected torrent of muddy and turbulent water rushing down a canyon or gulch. It is uncommon, of relatively brief duration, and generally the result of summer thunderstorms or the rapid melting of snow and ice in mountains. A flash flood can take place in a single tributary while the rest of the drainage basin remains dry. The suddenness of its occurrence causes a flash flood to be extremely dangerous.

A flood of such magnitude that it might be expected to occur only once in 100 years is called a 100-year flood. The magnitudes of 100-, 500-, and 1,000-year floods are calculated by extrapolating existing records of stream flow, and the results are used in the design engineering of many water resources projects, including dams and reservoirs, and other structures that may be affected by catastrophic floods.

106 Flood Topic Ideas & Research Questions on Flooding

🏆 best flood topic ideas & essay examples, 📌 simple & easy flood essay titles, 👍 good essay topics on flood, ❓ research questions on flooding.

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• The Story Of The Flood, How Utnapishtim Tells His Story To Gilgamesh
• The City Of Vanport And Its Struggle With Racism Before And After The Flood Of Vanport
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• The Flood Story in Genesis, the Epic of Gilgamesh, and the Flood Story in the Holy Quran
• The Truth Behind Noah And The Great Flood
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IvyPanda. (2024, February 25). 106 Flood Topic Ideas & Research Questions on Flooding. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/flood-essay-topics/

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Home — Essay Samples — Environment — Disasters — Flood

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127 Flood Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

Inside This Article

Floods are natural disasters that can have devastating effects on communities and ecosystems. They can cause widespread destruction, displacement of people, and loss of life. Writing an essay on flood-related topics can help raise awareness about the importance of preparedness and resilience in the face of such disasters. Here are 127 flood essay topic ideas and examples to inspire your writing:

• The impact of floods on agriculture and food security
• The role of climate change in increasing the frequency and intensity of floods
• How urbanization and deforestation contribute to flooding
• The social and economic costs of flood disasters
• The psychological effects of experiencing a flood
• The importance of early warning systems in flood preparedness
• How communities can build resilience to floods
• The role of government in mitigating flood risks
• The intersection of race, class, and vulnerability in flood disasters
• A comparative analysis of flood management strategies in different countries
• The ethical implications of rebuilding in flood-prone areas
• The impact of floods on wildlife and ecosystems
• The challenges of providing aid and relief after a flood
• The role of technology in predicting and monitoring floods
• The relationship between floods and water pollution
• The long-term effects of flooding on infrastructure
• The cultural significance of floods in different societies
• The role of insurance in mitigating the financial impact of floods
• The health risks associated with flooding
• The impact of floods on tourism and local economies
• The role of NGOs in disaster response and recovery after a flood
• The connection between floods and water scarcity
• The impact of floods on education and school infrastructure
• The role of community-based organizations in flood preparedness
• The impact of floods on mental health
• The effectiveness of flood protection measures such as levees and dams
• The ethical dilemmas of prioritizing resources in flood response
• The impact of floods on vulnerable populations such as the elderly and disabled
• The relationship between floods and infectious diseases
• The impact of floods on transportation and mobility
• The role of media in shaping public perceptions of floods
• The impact of floods on small businesses and entrepreneurship
• The challenges of rebuilding after a flood
• The impact of floods on water quality and sanitation
• The role of education in increasing awareness about flood risks
• The impact of floods on cultural heritage sites
• The connection between floods and climate refugees
• The impact of floods on mental health in children
• The role of community engagement in flood preparedness
• The impact of floods on gender dynamics and women's empowerment
• The relationship between floods and humanitarian crises
• The impact of floods on energy infrastructure
• The role of faith-based organizations in flood response and recovery
• The impact of floods on indigenous communities
• The effectiveness of early warning systems in reducing flood casualties
• The impact of floods on housing and homelessness
• The role of international aid in responding to flood disasters
• The impact of floods on waterborne diseases
• The relationship between floods and food insecurity
• The impact of floods on mental health in first responders
• The role of social media in disaster communication during floods
• The impact of floods on air quality and respiratory health
• The connection between floods and environmental justice
• The impact of floods on mental health in displaced populations
• The role of community-based adaptation in flood resilience
• The impact of floods on educational attainment and school performance
• The relationship between floods and conflict and violence
• The impact of floods on access to healthcare and medical services
• The role of local government in flood preparedness and response
• The impact of floods on water scarcity and drought
• The connection between floods and food waste
• The impact of floods on social cohesion and community resilience
• The role of art and storytelling in documenting flood experiences
• The impact of floods on wildlife conservation and biodiversity
• The relationship between floods and mental health stigma
• The impact of floods on infrastructure and public services
• The role of technology in connecting flood survivors with resources
• The impact of floods on cultural traditions and practices
• The connection between floods and displacement and migration
• The impact of floods on access to clean water and sanitation
• The role of youth in advocating for flood resilience and preparedness
• The impact of floods on LGBTQ+ communities and mental health
• The relationship between floods and poverty and inequality
• The impact of floods on access to education and learning opportunities
• The role of faith and spirituality in coping with flood trauma
• The impact of floods on mental health in older adults

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Natural Disasters Essay for Students and Children

500+ words essay on natural disasters.

A Natural disaster is an unforeseen occurrence of an event that causes harm to society. There are many Natural disasters that damage the environment and the people living in it. Some of them are earthquakes , cyclones, floods, Tsunami , landslides, volcanic eruption, and avalanches. Spatial extent measures the degree or severity of the disaster.

Levels of Disaster

The severity or degree of damage can be further divided into three categories:

Small Scale Disasters: Small scale disasters are those that extend from 50 Kms. to 100 Kms. So this kind of disasters does not cause much damage.

Medium-scale disasters: Medium Scale disasters extend from 100 Kms to 500 Kms. These cause more damage than a small scale disaster. Moreover, they can cause greater damage if they occur in colonial states.

Large Scale Disasters: These disasters cover an area of more than 1000 Kms. These cause the most severe damage to the environment. Furthermore, these disasters can even take over a country if the degree is high. For instance, the wiping out of the dinosaurs was because of a large scale natural disaster.

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

Types of Disasters

Causes: These can cause of releasing of the energy. This release is from the core of the earth. Furthermore, the release of energy causes seismic waves. Rupturing of geological faults causes earthquakes. But other events like volcanic eruptions, landslides mine blasts can also cause it.

Landslides: Landslides is the moving of big boulders of rocks or debris down a slope. As a result, landslides occur on mountains and hilly areas. Moreover, landslides can cause destruction to man-made things in many ways.

Causes: Gravitational pull, volcanic eruptions , earthquakes can cause landslides. Moreover, soil erosion due to deforestation is also a cause of landslides.

Avalanches: Avalanches are like landslides. But instead of rocks thousand tons of snow falls down the slope. Moreover, this causes extreme damage to anything that comes in its way. People who live in snowy mountains always have fear of it.

Causes: Avalanches takes places when there is a large accumulation of snow on the mountains. Moreover, they can also occur from earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. Furthermore, the chances of surviving an avalanche are very less. This is because people die of hypothermia in it.

Tsunami: Tsunami is the production of very high waves in oceans and seas. Moreover, the displacement of the ground causes these high waves. A tsunami can cause floods if it occurs near shores. A Tsunami can consist of multiple waves. Moreover, these waves have a high current. Therefore it can reach coastlines within minutes. The main threat of a tsunami is if a person sees a Tsunami he cannot outrun it.

Causes: Tsunami is unlike normal eaves that occur due to the wind. But Tsunami is waves that occur by ground displacement. Thus earthquakes are the main causes of Tsunamis.

FAQs on Essay on natural disaster

Q1.What are natural disasters?

A1. Natural Disasters are unforeseen events that cause damage to the environment and the people.

Q2.Name some Natural disasters.

A2. Some Natural Disasters are earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, Landslides, floods, Tsunami, avalanches. Natural disasters can cause great damage to human society. But preventive measures can be taken to reduce the damage from these disasters.

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Addressing Worldwide Flood Concerns: Empowering Local Communities

Denise Corsel

Over the last 25 years, the world has seen a rise in the frequency of natural disasters in rich and poor countries alike. Today, more people than ever are at risk from natural hazards, with those in developing countries particularly at risk. This essay series is intended to explore measures that have been taken, and could be taken, in order to improve responses to the threat or occurrence of natural disasters in the MENA and Indo-Pacific regions. Read  more ...  

Floods have become a growing concern throughout the world. [1] Fueling this concern is the prediction that climate change will increase the intensity and severity of flooding. [2] There are also growing concerns that climate change will dramatically increase the health risks associated with contaminated water and dangerous substances that are released during floods. [3] These concerns need to be addressed in order to reduce the negative impact of floods upon communities worldwide.

Coping with floods is a major challenge for many communities, especially those in developing nations, which generally have to manage the responses to and recovery from them mostly on their own. Governments, NGOs and other organizations provide aid during a natural disaster when, where and how they can. However, their extent of their contributions sometimes fail to meet the needs of local communities, especially immediately following the disaster but also in the longer term, due to their limited financial capabilities, inadequate access to affected areas, lack of awareness or political constraints under which they operate.

This essay focuses on the role of local communities during the recovery stage from floods. By drawing on a case study of rural communities in Laos, [4] the essay highlights the potential benefits of equipping local communities with long-term practices that will assist them in recovery efforts. The essay concludes with a discussion of the lessons and insights gained from this case and that they could be applied in other countries to improve flood resiliency.

The Importance of a Community-Centered Approach

This essay discusses floods from the perspective of long-term recovery since the latter contributes to resiliency, which is defined as “the ability to recover readily.” [5] The recovery stage—encompassing the process and outcome—is crucial because it covers everything that is required for the affected community to return to conditions of normality. [6] Floods are almost impossible to prevent and the scale of adverse consequences from floods is exceedingly difficult to gauge. Therefore, mitigating the consequences of floods is often quite challenging, especially in rural villages in developing countries, where technology and finances are in short supply. This overall magnifies the importance of the recovery stage.

Local communities are directly affected by floods and thus are the primary risk-bearers in such situations. They are the first on the scene and generally carry out the initial response. It is thus important to focus particularly on local communities during their recovery. Floods can inflict enormous damage, [7] especially upon those who are the most vulnerable community members. The damage affects property, finances, job security, emotional and health status, and livelihoods. Therefore, the community affected has an investment and a strong motive to recover and to return to normal life as quickly as possible. Compared to others, such as aid organizations, supporters and governments, the community itself will prioritize the recovery process the most. Therefore, a community-centered approach to improve flood resiliency is recommended. The Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction [8] supports this by emphasizing that there should be a people-centered approach when preventing disaster risk. To do so, during the recovery stage of a flood it is important for people to be both reflective and pro-active so that they can improve the management of future flooding.

Another reason why a community-centered approach is recommended is because with the increase of natural disasters throughout the world, [9] aid response will not be enough on its own. Resilient development [10] is, therefore, more important now than ever before. Developing the community to be resilient will not only enhance the efficiency of the recovery, but will assist with building a stronger system that can better manage all types of risks while improving the chances of maintaining the progress made by the community. Overall it will strengthen the current links between aid organizations and the communities’ development work, which allows for a lasting change. [11]

A community-centered approach can be highly efficient since communities know and understand their own situations best. Some would argue that experts possess greater expertise, theoretical knowledge and specific skills than the communities they seek to assist. Nonetheless, the local public has more everyday knowledge regarding their own surroundings and how their community members are likely to respond to certain recovery actions, which may be crucial to recover efficiently. Additionally, when preparing for a potential flood disaster, the community is the only party that has a clear emotional investment regarding the potential impacts and risks. In any event, it is imperative that all relevant stakeholders are included and participate to have a successful recovery process and outcome. [12] Community participation will enable more effective and long-term flood practices, improve the overall flood management process in place and allow for safer and quicker decisions to be made.

Helping to equip local communities, including their most vulnerable members, with recovery practices will enable them in the long-term to augment their own resilience to floods, which will be especially useful in case the prediction [13] that climate change will produce more intense and severe flooding is correct. As illustrated in the case of Laos’ rural communities, local communities, specifically those that are prone to flooding, tend to already have several recovery practices in place that could, and should be bolstered through the contributions of experts, government authorities and aid.

Recovery Practices in Laos

While numerous flood recovery practices are used throughout the world, local communities in Laos have their own practices, especially since they often experience flooding due to the annual rainy season. Flooding is Laos’ main hazard [14] that affects communities all across the county and often develops into a disaster. [15] Therefore, Laos’ coping practices have developed over many generations. They include traditional practices such as constructing houses on stilts; setting up community banks of rice; using traditional medicines; seeking shelter in temples and/or schools; creating dug-out drainage systems for paddy fields; and removing water from houses with baskets. These practices do indeed help with recovery, though they are predominantly needs-based coping strategies. However, NGOs and United Nations staff are teaching and/or sharing with rural communities other, more advanced flood resilience practices, such as using pumps to remove water; creating official village disaster committees and disaster preparedness plans; employing sturdier home building and repair techniques (e.g. using concrete or stronger wood); and implementing food and drinking storage systems.

In Laos, the management of flooding, which is challenging due to unpredictable flash floods, is primarily conducted at local levels and appears to be effective due to enhanced focus on villages’ own disaster management committees. Owing to the country’s financial situation, [16] flood management is mostly conducted by the individual village, which has its own village chief and elder. Often when a flood occurs, it is not possible for outsiders, including government officials, to enter/reach the villages affected. Therefore, it is important to focus particularly on local communities’ own coping mechanisms during recovery. In such a situation, Laos’ citizens currently manage and work together as a community to manage floods. So far, this has been working satisfactorily. However, with the building of houses in floodplains, logging trees and signs that changing climate is increasing the severity of floods and droughts, [17] existing local coping mechanisms might not be enough. Yet, whether their current practices are adequate to meet these immediate challenges or not, equipping Laos’ citizens with additional recovery practices would be highly beneficial, as it would allow the communities to better manage the (current and future) physical, emotional and secondary damage created by flooding disasters by strengthening their resilience. Additionally, it would allow them to handle the floods better in the long-term, especially if flooding worsens.

Laos’ villagers could learn from other recovery practices used in other countries. For instance, in Khammouane Province (Laos) the main concern during the recovery stage is health since floods spread disease and drinking and washing water become contaminated. This issue could be mitigated by chemically treating the water, as is done in Tanzania [18] or by using water purification tablets, as is done in Bangladesh. [19] Furthermore, another recovery practice that the majority of communities throughout Laos would benefit from would be the introduction of a rice variety that can withstand flooding because currently during floods the loss of rice, the main source of their livelihood, [20] is reducing their capability to recover. This practice has been effective in India, Bangladesh and Nepal, [21] and research is being conducted on how this would work in Laos. [22] There are many other practices that may be helpful, such as in Thailand, where communities are involved with hazard mapping to enhance education, [23] and in Vietnam, where they use schools to hold flood safety campaigns. [24] The idea that building on current practices while introducing new ones to enhance communities’ resilience is gathering momentum.

Nevertheless, it is important that communities are supported in selecting the most beneficial and realistic recovery practices. Additionally, it is crucial that the practices are manageable and accessible by the communities over the long term, thereby ensuring that they are sustainable. As a result, the communities would be empowered and capable of recovering from floods better and quicker, as well as potentially recovering from other natural disasters because some of these practices are transferable.

Some of Laos’ citizens may be content with the way floods are currently managed; however, most are open to learning and to trying out new practices and/or enhancing their current recovery practices. Moreover, villages, such as those in Laos, where residents have learned to cope with disasters on their own and thus, a community-centered approach is already in place, are likely to be more open to strengthening and building on their current approach than to acceding to outsiders’ management of the recovery stage. In fact, Laos’ government, in apparent recognition of this, supports village disaster management committees. Several aid organizations, including the Global Facility for Disaster Reduction and Recovery [25] and the United Nations also promote sustainable assistance to ensure that long-term resilience is strengthened in such a manner that the country and its communities will be better able to manage disasters and ‘build back better’ [26] without them.

Equipping local communities with long-term recovery practices, some of which may be learned from other countries and adapted to country-specific circumstances could contribute to more effective disaster recovery, a better flood management process, and safer and quicker decisions. The main lesson learned from the case study of rural communities in Laos is that in countries where aid is not always readily accessible and where a community-centered management approach has been forming over the years, it is important to focus on and enhance the community-centered approach during the flood recovery stage. Given that the incidence of flooding has increased and is predicted to worsen in countries, including Laos, [27] special attention should be devoted to strengthening long-term local recovery practices, which is part of resilient development. In particular, as also illustrated by this case study, it is crucial to consider sustainability when improving flood resilience at local levels.

Undeniably government agencies and aid organizations play a vital role in disaster management. Nevertheless, they should focus on enhancing the communities’ resilient development so that, in the future, communities can manage floods better on their own and conduct the recovery process with greater efficiency. Particularly during the recovery stage, the risk-bearers should be principally in charge of managing their situation, as it is they who know best what is required to return the community to a state of ‘normality’ as quickly as possible. Where possible, the risk-bearers should be supported in their efforts to guide ‘building back better’ initiatives. [28]  In sum, attention should be focused more sharply upon, and more support and resources should be invested in local communities to improve their flood resilience by enhancing their current recovery practices and introducing new ones.

[1] Dawei Han, Flood Risk Assessment and Management (Sharjah: Bentham Science Publishers, 2011) 1.

[2] Duncan Geere, “Global Flooding Risk Could Triple by 2030,” Wired , March 5, 2015, accessed April 15, 2016, http://www.wired.co.uk/news/archive/2015-03/05/flooding-predictions-2030 ; and Tianyi Luo ,  Andrew Maddocks ,  Charles Iceland , Philip Ward and Hessel Winsemius, “World’s 15 Countries with the Most People Exposed to River Floods,” World Resources Institute , March 5, 2015, accessed April 15, 2016, http://www.wri.org/blog/2015/03/world%E2%80%99s-15-countries-most-peopl… .

[3] Roger Few and Franziska Matthies, eds ., Flood Hazards & Health: Responding to Present and Future Risks (London: Earthscan, 2006); and National Geographic, “Floods,” National Geographic , 2015, accessed June 26, 2015, http://environment.nationalgeographic.com/environment/natural-disasters… .

[4] Laos, located in South-East Asia, is officially known as Lao PDR, which is short for Lao People’s Democratic Republic.

[5] Michael Pitt, Learning Lessons from the 2007 Floods: An Independent Review by Sir Michael Pitt (London: Cabinet Office, 2008) 349, accessed April 15, 2016, http://webarchive.nationalarchives.gov.uk/20100807034701/http:/archive… .

[6] Home Office, Dealing with Disaster (London: Cabinet Office, 1998), accessed April 15, 2016, http://webarchive.nationalarchives.gov.uk/20050523205851/http:/ukresili… .

[7] Roger Few and Franziska Matthies, eds ., Flood Hazards & Health: Responding to Present and Future Risks (London: Earthscan, 2006).

[8]  United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (U.N.I.S.D.R.), Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030  (2015) 10, accessed April 15, 2016, http://www.unisdr.org/files/43291_sendaiframeworkfordrren.pdf .

[9] International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, Introduction to the Guidelines for the Domestic Facilitation and Regulation of International Disaster Relief and Initial Recovery Assistance (Geneva: International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, 2011) 3.

[10]  Natalia Adler, “Resilient Development Means Better Preparing Children, Families and Communities for Shocks, Making Sure They Can Better Withstand Them, and Helping Them to Recover Quickly,”  U.N.I.C.E.F. Technical Note: Resilient Development (2016) 3.

[12] Upala Banerjee, “Adopting Rights-Based Programming Strategies Towards Developing Capacities for Accessing Sustainable Water and Sanitation Facilities: The NAM SAAT/Sida/UNICEF Partnership in Luang Prabang Province in Laos - A Case Study” (U.N.D.P., 2005) 249, accessed May 15, 2016,  http://www.unescobkk.org/fileadmin/user_upload/appeal/LLP/LLP_Documenta… .

[13] Duncan Geere, “Global Flooding Risk Could Triple by 2030,” Wired , March 5, 2015, accessed April 15, 2016, http://www.wired.co.uk/news/archive/2015-03/05/flooding-predictions-2030 .

[14]  United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (U.N.I.S.D.R.), Country Assessment Report for Lao PDR: Strengthening of Hydrometeorology Services in Southeast Asia   (2013), accessed April 15, 2016, http://www.unisdr.org/files/33988_countryassessmentreportlaopdr[1].pdf .

[15] Saysoth Keoduangsine, Robert Goodwin and Paul Gardner-Stephen, “A Study of an SMS-Based Flood Warning System for Flood Risk Areas in Laos,” International Journal of Future Computer and Communication  3 (2014): 182-186, accessed May 15, 2016, http://www.ijfcc.org/papers/292-M052.pdf .

[16] The World Bank, “Lao PDR Overview,” last modified April 2016, http://www.worldbank.org/en/country/lao/overview .

[17]  “Laos Yet to Formulate Drought Response Plan,” Vientiane Times , April 29, 2016, accessed May 11, 2016, http://www.vientianetimes.org.la/FreeContent/FreeConten_Laosyet.htm .

[18] Tumpale Sakijege, John Lupala and Shaaban Sheuya, “Flooding, Flood Risks and Coping Strategies in Urban Informal Residential Areas: The Case of Keko Machungwa, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania,” J àmbá: Journal of Disaster Risk Studies 4 (2012): 1-10, accessed April 15, 2016, doi: 10.4102/jamba.v4i1.46.

[19] S. Paul and J. Routray, “Flood Proneness and Coping Strategies: The Experiences of Two Villages in Bangladesh,” Disasters 34 (2010): 489-508, accessed April 15, 2016, doi: 10.1111/j.1467-7717.2009.01139.x.

[20]  “Lao PDR,” The International Rice Research Institute (2015), accessed April 15, 2016, http://irri.org/our-work/locations/lao-pdr .

[21] Amy Kazmin, “Asia Races to Find Drought-Resistant Rice,” Future of the Food Industry , last modified January 13, 2016, http://www.ft.com/cms/s/2/dea46c3e-982a-11e5-9228-87e603d47bdc.html .

[22]  “Lao PDR,” The International Rice Research Institute (2015), accessed April 15, 2016, http://irri.org/our-work/locations/lao-pdr .

[23] A. Phonmart, “Promoting Community Awareness and Strengthening Community Resilience.” Presentation by Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (D.D.P.M.), (Bangkok: Ministry of Interior).

[24] Standing Office of Tien Giang Provincial Committee for Flood and Storm Control (P.C.F.S.C.), “Activities under MRC – ADPC – ECHO Project and Achievement . ”   Presentation at Regional Workshop, Tien Giang, Laos, 2009.

[25]  World Bank, Resilient Recovery: An Imperative for Sustainable Development  (2015), accessed May 8, 2016, https://www.gfdrr.org/sites/gfdrr/files/publication/Resilient-Recovery-An-Imperative-for-Sustainable-Development.pdf .

[26] United Nations Lao PDR, “UN Disaster Risk Reduction Chief: Building Back Better Makes Communities More Resilient,” October 9, 2012, accessed April 15, 2016, http://www.la.one.un.org/media-center/news-and-features/20-un-disaster-risk-reduction-chief-building-back-better-makes-communities-more-resilient .

[27]  “Laos: Floods highlight disaster-preparedness needs,” IRIN , September 7, 2011, accessed May 7, 2016, http://www.irinnews.org/fr/report/93672/laos-floods-highlight-disasterp… .

[28] United Nations Lao PDR, “UN Disaster Risk Reduction Chief: Building Back Better Makes Communities More Resilient.”

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Four New Jersey counties rank in top 10 most at risk for flooding in 2024. See list

With hurricane season upon us, it's crucial for New Jersey residents to be aware of the potential dangers these storms can bring.

A recent study by LawnStarter compared flood risk across the United States, identifying over 940 counties with moderate to very high flood risk according to FEMA's data.

Here is a look at New Jersey counties at high risk for flooding:

 Top 10 most flood-prone counties in New Jersey

• Bergen County
• Atlantic County
• Cape May County
• Middlesex County
• Cumberland County
• Union County
• Burlington County
• Salem County

 Top 10 most flood-prone counties in the U.S.

• Harris County, Texas
• Bergen County, New Jersey
• Ocean County, New Jersey
• Atlantic County, New Jersey
• Cape May County, New Jersey
• Cameron County, Texas
• Volusia County, Florida
• Miami-Dade County, Florida
• St. Johns County, Florida
• Brevard County, Florida

What is heavy flooding?

Heavy flooding occurs when large volumes of water accumulate in an area, usually as a result of excessive rainfall, rapid snowmelt, storm surges, or dam failures. This water overwhelms the local drainage systems and causes rivers, lakes, or other bodies of water to overflow their banks, leading to widespread inundation of the surrounding land.

According to the  National Weather Service , the following types of flooding can be seen from these powerful storms.

Causes of heavy flooding in these counties

• Intense Rainfall:  Sudden and heavy rain can overwhelm drainage systems, especially in urban areas, leading to flash floods.
• Prolonged Rainfall:  Extended periods of rain can saturate the soil, causing rivers and lakes to swell and flood surrounding areas.
• Storm Surges:  Coastal flooding can occur when strong winds from tropical storms or hurricanes push seawater onto land.
• Dam or Levee Failures:  Structural failures can lead to sudden release of large volumes of water.
• River Blockages:  Landslides or ice jams can block river flow, causing upstream areas to flood.

Plan ahead if you live in a high risk flood zone

Here are some tips from the New Jersey Office of Emergency Management on flooding preparedness.

• Your Kit should include items that will help you stay self-sufficient for up to three days, if needed.
• Your Plan should include evacuation plans, a place to reunite with loved ones and an out-of-state contact person.
• Purchase a flood insurance policy . Your homeowner’s insurances does not cover flood damage so buying a policy is one of the most important things you can do to protect your home and family. You can obtain a flood insurance policy through your insurance company or agent. Flood insurance is guaranteed through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) , administered by FEMA.

How to prevent flooding around your home

According to  FEMA , here’s how to properly floodproof your home in case of flooding. 

• Maintain proper water runoff and drainage.  “Routinely clean and maintain gutters, downspouts, and splash pads so that rainwater from your roof flows easily away from your home. Also, make sure that any nearby drainage ditches or storm drains are clear of debris and functioning properly.”
• Improve lot grading.  “Determine how water flows or accumulates around your home to identify potential trouble spots (often easy to see during an average rainstorm). Stormwater should always drain away from the building; if necessary, change your landscaping to improve runoff.”
• Reduce impervious surfaces around your home.  “Water runs off concrete and asphalt almost immediately and can exceed the capacity of storm sewers quickly during heavy rains. Retaining and creating natural green space around your home can help reduce sewer overflows by reducing stormwater runoff. Consider options such as rain gardens, vegetated swales, or pervious pavements, which allow more water to be absorbed by the ground.”
• Install a rain barrel.  “A rain barrel is an alternative method for dealing with rainwater. Rain barrels are typically connected to gutter downspouts and collect the runoff from roofs. You can use this stored water for non-potable uses such as watering the lawn and gardens or washing your car.
• Elevate utilities and service equipment.  “Raise and anchor air conditioning condensers, heat pumps, water meters and other service equipment onto pedestals or platforms that are at least one foot above the potential flood elevation. For identified high-risk zones this means going to or above the regulatory flood elevation for the property as adopted by the local community. This inexpensive action can help prevent significant damage and disruption following a flood event.”
• Anchor outdoor fuel tanks.  “Attach outdoor fuel tanks to a large concrete slab that weighs enough to resist the force of floodwaters, or install inexpensive ground anchors that are connected across the top of the tank with metal straps. Unanchored fuel tanks can be easily moved and ruptured by floodwaters and pose serious threats to people, property, and the environment.”

USA TODAY contributed to this report. 

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This county in Texas ranks No. 1 in top 10 most at risk for flooding in 2024. See list

With hurricane season in effect, Texans should know what mishaps these storms can bring. 

Flooding is expected, and many Texas counties are at risk of flooding. 

A study from LawnStarter compared over 940 counties in the U.S. with a relatively moderate to very high flood risk, according to FEMA. Texas appeared in the study several times. 

Here is a look at counties at high risk for flooding. 

 Top 10 most flood-prone counties in Texas

• Harris County
• Cameron County
• Galveston County 
• Brazoria County
• Aransas County
• Jackson County 
• San Patricio County
• Orange County 
• Calhoun County
• Willacy County

 Top 10 most flood-prone counties in the U.S.

• Harris County, Texas
• Bergen County, New Jersey
• Ocean County, New Jersey
• Atlantic County, New Jersey
• Cape May County, New Jersey
• Cameron County, Texas
• Volusia County, Florida
• Miami-Dade County, Florida
• St. Johns County, Florida
• Brevard County, Florida

What is heavy flooding?

Heavy flooding occurs when large volumes of water accumulate in an area, usually as a result of excessive rainfall, rapid snowmelt, storm surges, or dam failures. This water overwhelms the local drainage systems and causes rivers, lakes, or other bodies of water to overflow their banks, leading to widespread inundation of the surrounding land.

According to the National Weather Service , the following types of flooding can be seen from these powerful storms.

Causes of heavy flooding in these counties

• Intense Rainfall: Sudden and heavy rain can overwhelm drainage systems, especially in urban areas, leading to flash floods.
• Prolonged Rainfall: Extended periods of rain can saturate the soil, causing rivers and lakes to swell and flood surrounding areas.
• Storm Surges: Coastal flooding can occur when strong winds from tropical storms or hurricanes push seawater onto land.
• Dam or Levee Failures: Structural failures can lead to sudden release of large volumes of water.
• River Blockages: Landslides or ice jams can block river flow, causing upstream areas to flood.

Plan ahead if you live in a high risk flood zone

Here are some tips from the Texas General Land Office on flooding preparedness: 

• Protect your personal documents and special items: Backup all documents in a waterproof bag and store electronic copies. Collect and safeguard critical financial, medical, educational, and legal documents and records.
• Build a disaster evacuation kit: Be equipped with medical supplies to tend to any current or unexpected medical conditions your family may have. Have at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food and water for your family. Remember to pack anything specific to your family’s needs, such as infant formula.
• Buy flood insurance: Most homeowner insurance policies will not cover flood loss. If your home was rebuilt through the Texas General Land Office’s Homeowner Assistance Program, and is located in a floodplain, flood insurance must be maintained in perpetuity to be eligible for future government assistance.

How to prevent flooding around your home

According to FEMA , here’s how to properly floodproof your home in case of flooding. 

• Maintain proper water runoff and drainage. “Routinely clean and maintain gutters, downspouts, and splash pads so that rainwater from your roof flows easily away from your home. Also, make sure that any nearby drainage ditches or storm drains are clear of debris and functioning properly.”
• Improve lot grading. “Determine how water flows or accumulates around your home to identify potential trouble spots (often easy to see during an average rainstorm). Stormwater should always drain away from the building; if necessary, change your landscaping to improve runoff.”
• Reduce impervious surfaces around your home. “Water runs off concrete and asphalt almost immediately and can exceed the capacity of storm sewers quickly during heavy rains. Retaining and creating natural green space around your home can help reduce sewer overflows by reducing stormwater runoff. Consider options such as rain gardens, vegetated swales, or pervious pavements, which allow more water to be absorbed by the ground.”
• Install a rain barrel. “A rain barrel is an alternative method for dealing with rainwater. Rain barrels are typically connected to gutter downspouts and collect the runoff from roofs. You can use this stored water for non-potable uses such as watering the lawn and gardens or washing your car.
• Elevate utilities and service equipment. “Raise and anchor air conditioning condensers, heat pumps, water meters and other service equipment onto pedestals or platforms that are at least one foot above the potential flood elevation. For identified high-risk zones this means going to or above the regulatory flood elevation for the property as adopted by the local community. This inexpensive action can help prevent significant damage and disruption following a flood event.”
• Anchor outdoor fuel tanks. “Attach outdoor fuel tanks to a large concrete slab that weighs enough to resist the force of floodwaters, or install inexpensive ground anchors that are connected across the top of the tank with metal straps. Unanchored fuel tanks can be easily moved and ruptured by floodwaters and pose serious threats to people, property, and the environment.”

USA TODAY contributed to this report. 

Does flood insurance cover ... this? A comprehensive guide to basement, rain, storm damage.

This summer was one of flash flooding and it doesn't seem to be slowing down in the fall. New York Gov. Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency Friday in New York City after heavy rain and flooding caused subway delays and road closures in the city and parts of New Jersey.

These heavy rainfall events could increase by 52% in the Northeast by the end of the century because of climate change, researchers previously told USA TODAY.

Looking to stay prepared? The Federal Emergency Management Agency has a public flood insurance policy, the National Flood Insurance Program but there are also many private market options to choose from. Here’s some basic information about coverage details. 

What does flood insurance cover?

Flood insurance is separate from homeowners insurance and covers physical damage directly caused by a flood.

Policies and coverage options vary based on the insurance carrier, although there are two different types of coverage available under NFIP – building and contents. Here’s what building flood insurance covers , according to NFIP:

• Electrical and plumbing systems
• Furnaces and water heaters
• Refrigerators, cooking stoves, and built-in appliances
• Permanently installed carpeting
• Permanently installed cabinets, paneling, and bookcases
• Window blinds
• Foundation walls, anchorage systems and staircases
• Detached garages
• Fuel tanks, well water tanks and pumps and solar energy equipment

Here’s what contents coverage protects:

• Personal belongings such as clothing, furniture and electronic equipment
• Washer and dryer
• Portable and window air conditioners
• Microwave oven
• Carpets not included in building coverage
• Valuable items up to $2,500

Damage that isn’t the direct result of flooding will not be covered by flood insurance. Here are a few examples of items that aren’t covered by flood insurance:

• Temporary housing and expenses incurred during building repairs
• Property outside of the insured building
• Financial losses due to business interruption
• Precious metals
• Stock certificates and other valuable papers
• Personal property kept in basements

Does flood insurance cover basements?

In the NFIP’s eyes, a basement is “any area of a building with a floor that is below ground level on all sides.” The NFIP’s standard policy covers cleanup and basement items that are installed or connected to a power source. This may include central air conditioners, fuel tanks, furnaces, water heaters electrical outlets, elevators, and stairways, among other items. You can view the full list here . 

Does flood insurance cover rain damage?

According to FEMA, if river overflow or rain causes flash flooding that enters the home, it’s likely covered because it’s known as a “direct result of flooding.” Flash flooding occurs when heavy rainfall surpasses the ground’s ability to absorb it . It can also occur when enough water accumulates for streams to overtop their banks. 

If the water comes through a covered structure or a damaged roof, it’s known as “wind-driven rain” or “water damage as a result of wind damage” and is likely not covered by your flood insurance, FEMA says.

Flood insurance: How much does it cost?

Does flood insurance cover storm surge?

Yes – NFIP policies cover damage to your home caused by storm surge . A storm surge is when a massive amount of water builds up and comes ashore during a hurricane. 

Does flood insurance cover burst pipes?

Burst pipes are typically covered by homeowners insurance, not flood insurance. You’ll want to check with your individual policy, though – FEMA states that NFIP covers plumbing systems . But if they burst of their own accord or without being impacted by rain, they likely won’t be covered by flood insurance. 

Does flood insurance cover sewer backup?

Sewer backup is covered only if it's a direct result of flooding , NFIP says. 

Do I need flood insurance?

Flood insurance is not federally regulated, though many lenders require property owners to buy flood insurance at closing. Homes and businesses with a government-backed mortgage within FEMA’s “100-year flood zone” are required to have flood insurance . 

There are several ways to assess your property’s risk. DJ McClure, vice president of business development at National Flood Experts, recommends looking for your property on the map to understand the proposed flood elevation. You can also do this by looking at Google Earth or by purchasing an elevation certificate, which FEMA says documents your building’s elevation to determine flood risk and insurance cost .

“If buying a property, it's good practice to talk to some neighboring properties to understand if any nearby bodies of water or potential flood sources have caused flooding issues in the past,” McClure wrote in an email to USA TODAY.

According to McClure, qualified insurance brokers can aid in lowering flood insurance costs – they’ll know how to properly evaluate the building and seek out an engineering-based consulting service if needed.

When is hurricane season?: The information you need to stay prepared

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USA TODAY is exploring the questions you and others ask every day. From "When is tornado season?" to "Why is yawning contagious?" to "Is Uber safe?" , we're striving to find answers to the most common questions you ask every day. Head to our Just Curious section to see what else we can answer for you.

Flood-prevention efforts underway in Bellevue near Offutt AFB

BELLEVUE, Neb. (WOWT) - Overnight storms pushed the Missouri River a bit higher in the Bellevue area, preventing officials from reopening a flood gate in the flowing into the Brown River and Mud Creek.

Heavy rains overnight and throughout the day Tuesday caused Mud Creek to flow over its banks, causing minor flooding near Harlan Lewis Road in the Industrial Park area near the old Paradise Lakes.

Aerial photos from the Bellevue Police Department from this morning (Tuesday, July 2, 2024). Missouri River up a... Posted by City of Bellevue, Nebraska on  Tuesday, July 2, 2024

With forecasts calling for even more rain in the area , the city and Papio-Missouri River NRD set up a large pump near the Brown River Flood Gate, east of the Base Lake, to move water over the levee and into the Missouri River.

“The problem with a heavy rain like we experienced over the last couple of days is that the storm runoff has nowhere to go since the Floodgate to the Missouri River is closed,” a post on the city’s Facebook page says.

Officials have been trying to pump out the excess, lowering the level of the Brown River about 5 inches over the course of four hours. NRD plans to continue those efforts until 8 p.m.

Here is an update on the City of Bellevue’s flood prevention efforts along the Mud Creek and the Brown River off Harlan... Posted by City of Bellevue, Nebraska on  Tuesday, July 2, 2024

Water was already high in the area ahead of the storms early Tuesday, with officials from the city and the NRD as well as Offutt Air Force Base, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers keeping an eye on local water levels.

Happy Monday, July 1, 2024. Despite the morning rain, the flood waters continue to recede at Haworth Park and other... Posted by City of Bellevue, Nebraska on  Monday, July 1, 2024

Copyright 2024 WOWT. All rights reserved.

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CDC Recommends Updated 2024-2025 COVID-19 and Flu Vaccines for Fall/Winter Virus Season

For Immediate Release: June 27, 2024 Contact: Media Relations (404) 639-3286

Today, CDC recommended the updated 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccines and the updated 2024-2025 flu vaccines to protect against severe COVID-19 and flu this fall and winter.

It is safe to receive COVID-19 and flu vaccines at the same visit. Data continue to show the importance of vaccination to protect against severe outcomes of COVID-19 and flu, including hospitalization and death. In 2023, more than 916,300 people were hospitalized due to COVID-19 and more than 75,500 people died from COVID-19. During the 2023-2024 flu season, more than 44,900 people are estimated to have died from flu complications.

Updated 2024-2025 COVID-19 Vaccine Recommendation

CDC recommends everyone ages 6 months and older receive an updated 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccine to protect against the potentially serious outcomes of COVID-19 this fall and winter whether or not they have ever previously been vaccinated with a COVID-19 vaccine. Updated COVID-19 vaccines will be available from Moderna, Novavax, and Pfizer later this year. This recommendation will take effect as soon as the new vaccines are available.

The virus that causes COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2, is always changing and protection from COVID-19 vaccines declines over time. Receiving an updated 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccine can restore and enhance protection against the virus variants currently responsible for most infections and hospitalizations in the United States. COVID-19 vaccination also reduces the chance of suffering the effects of Long COVID, which can develop during or following acute infection and last for an extended duration.

Last season, people who received a 2023-2024 COVID-19 vaccine saw greater protection against illness and hospitalization than those who did not receive a 2023-2024 vaccine. To date, hundreds of millions of people have safely received a COVID-19 vaccine under the most intense vaccine safety monitoring in United States history.

Updated 2024-2025 Flu Vaccine Recommendation

CDC recommends everyone 6 months of age and older, with rare exceptions, receive an updated 2024-2025 flu vaccine to reduce the risk of influenza and its potentially serious complications this fall and winter. CDC encourages providers to begin their influenza vaccination planning efforts now and to vaccinate patients as indicated once 2024-2025 influenza vaccines become available .

Most people need only one dose of the flu vaccine each season. While CDC recommends flu vaccination as long as influenza viruses are circulating, September and October remain the best times for most people to get vaccinated. Flu vaccination in July and August is not recommended for most people, but there are several considerations regarding vaccination during those months for specific groups:

• Pregnant people who are in their third trimester can get a flu vaccine in July or August to protect their babies from flu after birth, when they are too young to get vaccinated.
• Children who need two doses of the flu vaccine should get their first dose of vaccine as soon as it becomes available. The second dose should be given at least four weeks after the first.
• Vaccination in July or August can be considered for children who have health care visits during those months if there might not be another opportunity to vaccinate them.
• For adults (especially those 65 years old and older) and pregnant people in the first and second trimester, vaccination in July and August should be avoided unless it won’t be possible to vaccinate in September or October.

Updated 2024-2025 flu vaccines will all be trivalent and will protect against an H1N1, H3N2 and a B/Victoria lineage virus. The composition of this season’s vaccine compared to last has been updated with a new influenza A(H3N2) virus .

For more information on updated COVID-19 vaccines visit:  Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) | CDC . For more information on updated flu vaccines visit: Seasonal Flu Vaccines | CDC .

The following statement is attributable to CDC Director Dr. Mandy Cohen:

“Our top recommendation for protecting yourself and your loved ones from respiratory illness is to get vaccinated,” said Mandy Cohen, M.D., M.P.H. “Make a plan now for you and your family to get both updated flu and COVID vaccines this fall, ahead of the respiratory virus season.”

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