Floods are devastating to the environment and ecosystems in the affected region. They have a direct impact on humans, social life, the economy as well as the ecosystem. Floods have negative and positive consequences and vary based on area, depth, time and water speed. Here are the collective impacts of floods on the environment.
Erosion and Sedimentation
High-speed flood water causes riverbank erosion. Developed and urban areas become the most affected in this case. Sedimentation clogs rivers and reduces the storage capacity for wetlands and dams. Flood water carries a vast quantity of sediments leaving behind deposits after the water recedes. If the impact is extreme, floods reduce water quality, affect industrial use and the supply of water to humans.
Destruction of Property
Floods lead to the destruction of property in developed areas where humans reside. That could be in urban areas and plains. The supply of essential services like drinking water, electricity, and transport become interrupted. In many properties, floods clog different households with water, and in worse conditions, floods sweep them away. If your items in the house are affected by floods, you can check royaldesign.com for better deals to replace the worn-out items. That is because you are likely to need to replace household items after the devastating consequences of flooding.
Dispersion of Debris and Pollutants
You will find debris, nutrients, plastics, and different pollutants in floodwater. Contaminants such as pesticides, bacteria, and chemical reagents diffuse, quickly reducing water quality. The most common debris found includes stones, trees, and pieces of destroyed property that end up affecting the natural habitats of marine species that reside in rivers and seas.
Injuries and Death
Floods lead to injuries and death among humans and livestock. The number of those affected depends on the magnitude of the flood, and the total population living in those regions determine fatalities. Highly populated areas are likely to report more cases than low populated areas. Slow-rising riverbank floods allow people to relocate to safe areas and minimises the number of casualties. However, flash floods are likely to take people by surprise, increasing the number of fatalities.