Flood occurs when water overflows from a water body and submerges the land surrounding it. This happens when the amount of water exceeds the capacity of the water body and overflows and it usually occurs when there is continuous rainfall and the source of the water body gains momentum and force. The river becomes so powerful that it forces its way out of its normal track and engulfs whatever comes in its way.

Causes of Floods

The most important cause of floods can be accounted to melting of snow on the mountains, which causes the river water to overflow. River water can also overflow due to continuous rainfall for a long period of time. This causes the water body to cross its capability to hold the water. A flood can also be caused by a storm or a high tide. Tsunamis can also result in flood. Sometimes the course of the river changes due to over deposition of silt on a particular area. This can also cause flood and heavy damage of life and property. Periodic floods also occur in some of the rivers. The most important cause remains the monsoon rainfall.

Effects of Floods

Floods have a very devastating effect on the surrounding regions. Floods cause damage and destruction to the buildings and structures that come in its way. More than that, it causes loss of life and property on a huge scale. Floods also harm the normal supply of water as the water becomes contaminated and there is scarcity of clean drinking water. The worst part about floods is that the area is totally cut off from the normal flow of life, which harms the food and crop supply.

Floods are one of the most feared Weather-related disasters and it is important that you know about taking the right steps in such a situation. The Flood Safety measures are some of the ways you can implement to be safe if flood occurs in your region.