Flooding is an overflowing of water onto land that is normally dry. Floods can happen during heavy rains, when ocean waves come on shore, when snow melts quickly, or when dams or levees break. Damaging flooding may happen with only a few inches of water, or it may cover a house to the rooftop.

Click on a state to learn more about the types of flooding experienced there and how residents can protect their lives and property. You will also find information on the top 5 floods for each state, learn which National Weather Service offices forecast for the area and more!

Oct 25, 2024 · Extreme weather has thrashed the United States this year with more flood emergencies than any other year — a deadly, sobering statistic that scientists say paints a picture of the future as the...

Nov 3, 2023 · A growing number of coastal and inland communities are finding themselves underwater. Here’s how climate change plays a role in flooding, and what we can do about it.

Sep 26, 2023 · It describes the types of flooding, the contribution of climate change, historical trends of flood impacts and costs, the role of exposure to rising flood costs, and social vulnerability to flooding—which leads to uneven impacts of …

Floods may: Result from rain, snow, coastal storms, storm surges and overflows of dams and other water systems. Develop slowly or quickly. Flash floods can come with no warning. Cause outages, disrupt transportation, damage buildings and create landslides. If you are under a …

Flooding typically occurs when prolonged rain falls over several days, when intense rain falls over a short period of time, or when an ice or debris jam causes a river or stream to overflow onto the surrounding area.

Here you will find an interactive flood map, information describing the different types of flooding and educational material. You will also learn how the National Weather Service keeps you aware of potentially dangerous flooding situations through alerts and warnings.

Rainfall that is normally absorbed by soil and vegetation can run off almost instantly, causing creeks and drainage areas to flood much earlier and with higher magnitude than normal. A flash flood is caused by heavy or excessive rainfall in a short …

Dec 5, 2024 · Many different situations can cause a flood. Here are just a few: Heavy rainfall; Ocean waves coming on shore, such as a storm surge; Melting snow and ice, as well as ice jams; Dams or levees breaking; Geography can also make an area more likely to flood. For example, areas near rivers are often at risk for floods.