FLOODS
FLASH FLOOD A sudden, violent flood that occurs within a few hours, or even minutes, of a storm The water rises very rapidly (in a flash) after it begins to rain heavily
What causes flooding? The rising of a body of water and its overflowing onto normally dry land (out of its banks) A flash flood can be caused by… heavy rains snow melting a dam breaking ice on a river un-jamming
How can the dangers of flooding be reduced? Advanced warning systems Be aware Have a plan if you live in flood prone areas
Why are flash floods so dangerous? Flash floods are so dangerous because it can happen so quickly that there is not much time to react.
Why is it dangerous to stay in a car during a flood? The water can wash a car away and people can become trapped in the car
How can precipitation cause flooding? So much rain can fall so quickly that it causes the water to rise out of the banks
What should you do to stay safe during a flood? Move to higher ground Stay away from flood waters Do not cross flooded creeks or streams Do not drive across flooded roads Floods can contaminate drinking water
What is the difference between a flood watch and a flood warning? Watch- flooding is possible in your area Warning- flooding has already been reported
Name 3 tools that supply flood information Weather satellites- images from space Radar- Indicating the amount of rain that is falling River gauges- indicates the height of the water in the river
Describe 3 weather situations in which you would expect flood to occur Hurricanes or tropical storms (the heavy rain) Heavy rain (severe weather along a front) Melting snow in the spring