Explaining Flood Types

news image
Top Stories
29 Feb 2020 11:00 AM
https://youtu.be/_upIh4fCMxs There are many types of flooding that can impact us across the country, including river flooding, areal flooding, and flash flooding.  These are different types of one of the deadliest natural disasters in the United States. Flash flooding is the most dangerous kind as it can happen in the blink of an eye!  This is when water levels rise within six hours of the cause, which can be from heavy rain and sometimes rapid runoff from elevated terrain. River floods happen when the water level rises to the point it spills out of its banks and inundates typically dry areas.  Some of the causes include ice jams, rapid snow melt, heavy rain, or dam failures.  This type of flooding will be classified as minor, moderate, or major depending on the water height and potential impacts. Areal flooding develops at a slower pace and can occur more than six hours after moderate to heavy rain begins.  Think about flooding covering large areas such as farm land and neighborhoods as a visual example. It’s important to pay attention to the type of flooding that could threaten your neighborhood so when a watch, warning, or advisory is issued, you know the best way to prepare.  Just remember – flooding can happen anywhere in the United States, and during any time of year.
All Weather News
More
Catastrophic Flooding in the Texas Hill Country

Catastrophic Flooding in the Texas Hill Country

Multiple Flash Flood Emergencies were issued

6 Jul 2025 9:15 PM
Severe Storms in the Midwest Continue To Spoil the Holiday Weekend

Severe Storms in the Midwest Continue To Spoil the Holiday Weekend

NORTHERN PLAINS - A frontal system continues

6 Jul 2025 8:00 PM
Eastern Pacific Remains Active

Eastern Pacific Remains Active

Following the prolific start to the season, t

6 Jul 2025 6:15 PM
Severe Storms Target the Front Range & Great Plains

Severe Storms Target the Front Range & Great Plains

Severe storms will continue to fire up off th

6 Jul 2025 6:10 PM
Chantal Weakens After Making Landfall Sunday Morning

Chantal Weakens After Making Landfall Sunday Morning

Tropical Storm Chantal formed earlier Saturda

6 Jul 2025 6:00 PM
Hot Weather Brings a Shot at Storms Out East

Hot Weather Brings a Shot at Storms Out East

Guess who's back. The heat and humidity will

6 Jul 2025 10:20 AM
Near Seasonal Temperatures for Many Come July 4th!

Near Seasonal Temperatures for Many Come July 4th!

AAA is expecting over 70 million travelers to

4 Jul 2025 10:15 AM