The week of March 18-22, 2013 has been designated National Flood Safety Week. We continue our effort here at WBNG to help you remain aware of flooding.
This installment deals with Snowmelt Flooding. The northeastern portion of the United States, along with other parts of the country, are susceptible to this type of flooding.
Most snowmelt flooding events are not widespread, but they can be devastating. According to the National Atmospheric and Oceanic Administration (NOAA) 8 of the most significant floods in the 20th century were related to this type of flooding.
There are many factors that cause snowmelt flooding and one of the most obvious is soil moisture content before the snowmelt occurs. If the ground is "dry", the ground can absorb the liquid released from the melting snow. If it is "moist", the water will essentially run-off into creeks and streams. This can cause rapid rises on area waterways and in some cases, it can cause flooding.
For more information some other factors please visit Snowmelt Flooding Questions.
Be sure to check back each day this week. We'll have more flood information and links for you to follow to keep you and your family safe!
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