![]() They are usually caused by heavy rainfall in a short period of time. Flash floods: These are short-lived events of rapidly rising water.Overbank or overland floods: These are the most common types of floods and occur when waterways overflow their banks because of rain or melting snow.Last week’s eastern Kentucky flood along with those that hit Texas in late May and June - the most devastating in the state’s history - may foreshadow what’s to come in certain parts of the country. A warmer ocean transfers more water vapor into the air which, when shaken loose by storms, results in heavier and more concentrated precipitation. Plus, this year's El Niño is forecast to be a record-setting one by the National Weather Service. An El Niño is a weather phenomenon marked by warmer Pacific Ocean temperatures that produces severe weather throughout the world. This year has seen an above-average number of fires burn areas on the West Coast - about 1,000 more fires than usual in California alone - where El Niño rains would have a significant impact. Such blazes accelerate flood risk because scorched soil doesn’t retain as much water as healthy soil, meaning runoffs occur more easily. ![]() Wildfires could exacerbate the situation. It's already forecasting an above-average flood watch for the Sierra Nevada. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) says this year’s El Niño is triggering a higher likelihood for above-normal rain, with higher amounts expected come winter. Now, government agencies are warning that this autumn may behave much like spring. The annual ritual is known as the spring thaw. Rivers typically flood in springtime as snowmelt from mountains makes its way downhill and combines with rain. Watch Video: Signs show huge El Niño growing
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |