Here are some interesting facts about floods:
- Floods are the most common natural hazard in the United States and one of the most common natural disasters worldwide. They can occur anywhere it rains hard for an extended period, not just near rivers or oceans.
- Floodplains, which naturally flood frequently, cover only about 2% of Earth's land surface but provide roughly 25% of all land-based ecosystem service benefits, including clean water, wildlife habitat, and flood water storage.
- Wetlands act as natural sponges during floods, saving over $30 billion annually in flood damage repair costs in the U.S. A single acre of wetland saturated one foot deep can hold 330,000 gallons of water, enough to flood 13 average homes thigh-deep.
- Floodwaters can be very dangerous, often contaminated with sewage, chemicals, and filled with fast-moving water that can knock people off their feet. Just six inches of moving water can knock an adult down, and two feet of water can sweep away most cars.
- Flood damage is generally not covered by standard home insurance, so separate flood insurance is necessary for protection.
- Floods can happen suddenly without warning, especially flash floods that can occur within minutes or hours of heavy rain and can bring walls of water up to 10 to 20 feet high.
- Floods can occur year-round, including winter, often caused by rapid snowmelt or ice jams along rivers which can block or release water causing flooding.
- Over the past century, storms have become more intense and frequent, and floodplain areas in the United States are expected to grow by 40-45% in the next 90 years due to climate change, increasing flood risk.
- Floods can last for days or even weeks, so having an emergency kit and plan is vital for survival during prolonged flooding events.
These facts highlight floods' complexity, dangers, and ecological importance. Being informed and prepared is essential for safety and minimizing damage.
