Floods are one of the world’s most common and devastating natural disasters. They can be triggered by heavy rains, hurricane storm surge, or rapid snowmelt, and can happen with little warning. Climate change is making these floods more frequent and severe.
A flood occurs when a river, stream, or other body of water overflows its banks and soaks land that is normally dry. There are few places on Earth that don’t experience floods, but the impact of a flood can vary greatly depending on how it occurs and where it happens.
The most common and severe impact of floods is a loss of life, property, and livelihoods. People lose irreplaceable belongings and are forced to evacuate their homes, often for extended periods of time. This can be emotionally and physically challenging for the displaced, particularly children. It can also be financially debilitating for households, resulting in lost wages and savings.
Floods can also cause water-borne diseases, including cholera, typhoid, malaria, and hepatitis A. This is especially problematic for those living in rural areas without access to safe drinking water and sanitation services. Water quality can also be affected by flooding, and residents are advised to check for boil-water notices and to test their water before consuming it. People should avoid direct contact with floodwaters, and should wash any open wounds with soap and clean water as soon as possible. If contact is unavoidable, alcohol-based wipes or sanitizer should be used to prevent the spread of disease.
About the Author
