Flooding
Floods can bring both advantages and disadvantages to an area. Floods can deposit rich, fertile alluvium on agricultural areas. Also, flood water can replenish irrigation channels. On the other hand floods can destroy food supplies, homes and transport infrastructures.
Causes of flooding
Human causes:
Deforestation - Cutting down trees causes increased run-off (water flowing over the surface of the earth). Rain water reaches rivers faster. Flooding becomes more likely.
Urbanisation - Man-made surfaces such as concrete result in greater run-off. Rain water reaches rivers faster and can cause flooding.
Natural causes:
Heavy rainfall
Melting snow
Solutions to flooding
Afforestation - Planting more trees reduces run-off and increases interception.
Dams - Although very expensive, dams can significantly reduce the risk of flooding downstream
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