Flood is when water overflows the normal boundaries of a river, stream or body of water and covers land that is normally dry. Flooding is one of the most common natural hazards and can damage homes, businesses, roads, bridges, and other infrastructure. It occurs from heavy rains, hurricane waves, ice jams on rivers and creeks, or even dam or levee failures. Floods can be slow-forming, developing over days or weeks, or they may happen fast, with little warning, as in flash flooding.
Floodplains are a natural part of the environment and help keep communities safe, clean and productive. Unfortunately, changes to the landscape like new buildings or droughts can increase a community’s risk for flooding. With bold leadership and smart planning, we can protect our schools, hospitals, roads, and homes from floods.
The most common cause of flooding is rainfall that exceeds the capacity of rivers, streams and other bodies of water to carry the water. This water must go somewhere, and so it overflows into areas that are not normally flooded, such as neighborhoods, farms and other parts of the city. Floods also can occur from a break in dams or levees, or they can result from human activities.
If you are in an area prone to flooding, create and review your family emergency plan, including where to meet if you must evacuate, and how to prepare for the risks. Learn more about your neighborhood or town’s flood risk using tools such as FEMA’s Flood Maps.