What Is A Flood?
A flood is when a body of water rises and overflows onto land that normally is dry. Floods are caused by a water body becoming too filled with water and spilling over. Heavy rains and melting snow can cause flooding.

The Natural Environment
Floods can damage the natural environment.  Plants can be damaged by the force of the water. Trees, for example,  might get knocked over. Animals can be killed by drowning and/or because their food sources are negatively affected.  This fish died when the flood waters receded and it was left behind.

The Built Environment

Floods can cause lots of damage to the built environment. Water can seep into houses, drinking water can be contaminated, electricity supplies may break down and roads can be blocked. The force of the water can create torsion and tension in built structures and damage them.

Protect Yourself!

People can protect themselves from floods by building things to control flooding such as dams, dikes and levees.  In some areas where flooding occurs often, people will build their houses on stilts.

 

What Should We Do During A Flood?

During a flood:

 

• Shut off the electricity, furnaces and the outside gas valves if safe to do so.
• Never try to cross a flooded area on foot.
• If you are in a car, do not drive through flood waters.