A flood is the inundation of a large amount of water outside its normal limits, especially in normally dry land, and can originate from bodies of water such as rivers, lakes, dams or even oceans in which water is present. The water crosses or breaks through the banks, causing part the water loses its usual limits.
Floods can also occur due to rainwater accumulation in saturated soils.
Every time a flood occurs, there is a possibility of death, difficulty for people, and significant property damage. Some floods occur suddenly and go back quickly, while others take days or even months to form and recede due to various topographical factors.
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Causes of flooding
• High rainfall over a longer period of time can flood the infrastructure drainage systems, which properly direct the rainwater into the reservoirs and do not allow the water to drain away as quickly as necessary. Water will increase and increase in houses and other structures.
• Flooded rivers do not necessarily have to be exposed to heavy rain to suffer flooding, but also people who live upriver along rivers. Rivers whose dams are not managed effectively can lead to flooding for people living upriver.
• Broken dams, old dam walls and water valves may not contain an increasing water level in the dam. The walls can release streams of water for unsuspecting houses.
• Storm surges caused by hurricanes and other storms can cause large floods, as can tsunamis caused by underwater earthquakes.
• Large paved areas in urban areas become impermeable and prevent water from penetrating the ground. As a result, even with small amounts of precipitation, floods occur that could have been handled easily by unpaved areas.
• Uncontrolled garbage clogs drainage systems and prevents rainwater from flowing through the system quickly enough.
• Poor developments in a natural waterway, especially in low areas, lead to dams and floods in the region.
Types of floods
Flash floods generally cause a greater loss of life and occur when runoffs due to excessive rainfall cause the height of normally dry streams or channels to increase rapidly.
• River floods generally cause more property damage.
These two types of flood cause widespread chaos and have a negative impact on everyone. It makes no distinction between rich and poor, young and old. It causes economic losses: it damages bridges and removes cars, grain and cattle. The drainage of sewage and dirt to the rivers also causes pollution.
Flood protection tips
Planning and preparation are of paramount importance against flooding, they can save lives.
• Have an evacuation plan for the family. Tornadoes, hurricanes and other natural disasters are forcing people to have a plan on how to safely clear their homes.
• Have the essentials ready. Have at least three days of water, non-perishable food, and essential medication ready so that they are available when needed.
• Prepare your home and family. If you know that an upcoming storm can cause major floods, pack your bags and have them ready in case you need to leave quickly.
• When evacuating, if possible, disconnect the device from the power supply before leaving to minimize the risk of fire and electricity. Close and block all windows and doors.
• Keep away from flooding. If you find a creek with the water above your ankles, use a different route.
• If floods cover the surface of a bridge, do not cross it. The bridge may have been pulled or the water jet is too strong and washes your vehicle or yourself. Even if you drive a heavy truck, you are not taking any chances.
• Be especially careful at night when the risk of flooding is harder to see.
• Keep children and pets away from the water. Water can be contaminated and full of dirt.
• Go to a higher level and avoid flood areas.
• Do not try to enter or cross brooks or flooded streets.
• Listen to the guidance of local authorities and keep up to date with local weather reports and news.
• If it comes into contact with floods, wash your hands with soap and disinfected water.
• After flooding, check for structural damage before entering your home so that you don't get caught when a building collapses.
• If your home is affected by flooding, turn off the power until a qualified electrician has checked your system for safety.
• Boil water to drink and prepare food until the authorities tell you that your water supply is safe.
• Prevent mold by immediately removing the damp content.
• Wear gloves and boots when cleaning and disinfecting.
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In case of life-threatening emergencies, call the emergency numbers that endanger the life of Ekurhuleni (011 458 0911) or the national toll-free number (10177 from a landline or 112 from a mobile phone).
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