Question

In which category are Floods listed?

• A. Geological Disasters
• B. Water and Climate Related Disasters
• C. Biological Disasters
• D. Accident-Related Disasters

Answer 1

Answer:

B. Water and Climate Related Disasters

This category encompasses natural disasters that are directly associated with hydrological (water-related) processes and often influenced by climatic conditions.

• Floods: These are an overflow of water that submerges land that is usually dry.

  • Causes: They are primarily caused by:

    • Heavy Rainfall: Prolonged or intense precipitation overwhelming drainage systems.

    • River Overflow: Rivers bursting their banks due to excessive upstream water flow.

    • Storm Surges: Coastal flooding caused by strong winds pushing seawater ashore (often associated with cyclones).

    • Dam/Levee Failure: Collapse of human-made water retention structures.

    • Rapid Snowmelt: Sudden melting of large amounts of snow or ice.

  • Characteristics: Floods can range from localized flash floods to widespread regional inundation, causing significant property damage, displacement, and loss of life. Their occurrence is intrinsically linked to the water cycle and weather patterns.

Given their direct connection to precipitation, water bodies, and weather systems, floods are a quintessential example of a Water and Climate Related Disaster.