Flood

Flooding - a significant flooding of the area as a result of rising water in a river, reservoir or sea causing material damage to the economy, the social sphere and the natural environment.

There are the following types of floods depending on their causes:

1. Floods connected with the maximum runoff of water due to spring melting of snow. They are distinguished by a significant and rather long rise in the water level, but are usually not accompanied by damage.

2. Floods formed by rain or snow melting in high mountain areas or winter thaws

3. Floods caused by high resistance, which the water flow meets in the riverbed.

4. Floods during the breakthrough of dams, hydraulic structures.

5. Floods caused by underwater earthquakes or volcanic eruptions and connected with tsunamis.

6. Floods created by wind surges on the shores of large lakes, reservoirs and in the mouths of large rivers.

Direct consequences:

1. Death of people and animals.

2. Destruction and damage of buildings, structures, outbuildings, etc.

3. Loss of harvest.

4. Destruction of the fertile soil layer (washout, siltation, sand deposition).

5. Change of landscape.

6. Interruption of economic activity.

Secondary consequences:

1. Loss of strength of various structures (erosion, washing).

2. Water transportation of harmful substances and pollution of large areas.

3. Water logging.

With getting of the flood forecast, people are informed and the flood commission starts its work. Before evacuation it is necessary:

> turn off gas, electricity, water supply;

> move all the valuable things to the upper floors;

> collect necessary documents, money, valuables, supplies, medicines, stock of products, etc.