Himachal Flash Floods, let's discover more about it!

What defines a flash flood?

It is a rapid influx of water in a waterway or low-lying city region, usually occurring within six hours after significant rainfall.

It is usually caused by severe storms that drop a significant amount of rain in a brief timeframe.

Causes of sudden flooding

Intense rainfall from thunderstorms typically causes flash floods, but they can also occur due to dam or levee failures and mudslides.

Elements such as rainfall intensity, terrain, vegetation, soil composition, and land usage determine the speed and location of flash floods.

Urban regions are particularly susceptible because of solid surfaces that hinder water absorption, resulting in quick runoff.

Situation in India

In India, cloudbursts frequently cause flash floods, particularly in Himalayan areas, where the overflow of glacial lakes is rising due to melting glaciers.

– These floods often occur alongside landslides, particularly in hilly regions with sharp inclines and loose soil.

Cities such as Chennai and Mumbai have also experienced flash floods.

Depression and cyclonic storms in coastal regions of Orissa, West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, and others also lead to flash floods.

Consequences of rapid flooding

Flash floods arise quickly, frequently surprising individuals and threatening significant dangers to lives and property.

They can cause extensive health effects, ranging from immediate fatalities and injuries to enduring physical and psychological health problems.

The majority of fatalities from floods occur due to drowning, with trauma, electrocution, and various other reasons following.

Health issues encompass infections, exposure to chemicals, respiratory complications, hypothermia, and interrupted healthcare services caused by power failures.

Floods elevate the threat of water-related illnesses and vector-related diseases.