1. FLOODS

2. 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

3. 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

4. How can the dangers of flooding be reduced?
Advanced warning systems
Be aware
Have a plan if you live in flood prone areas

5. 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.

6. 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

7. How can precipitation cause flooding?
So much rain can fall so quickly that it causes the water to rise out of the banks

8. 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

9. 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

10. 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

11. 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