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Ask the scientist: Extreme rainfall, why it happens and how we predict it
When it rains, it pours, the saying goes.
When it pours to excess, that’s when life gets messy. And possibly dangerous.
Stock photo of people on the street in Quebec, Canada, taking shelter from a heavy rainstorm, while three people in the background brave the elements with umbrellas. (Image credit: istock)
We spoke with NOAA weather expert Dr. David Novak of NOAA’s Weather Prediction Center to better understand why extreme rainfall events occur and how timely forecasts matter:
Q: So, what defines extreme rainfall events, and why do they happen?
David Novak (DN): While there is no single definition of extreme rainfall, per se, a good benchmark is a month’s worth of rain for a given location falling in one day — that’s a big event. And impacts vary by location.
Many events of extreme rainfall share characteristics, such as high moisture and an atmospheric disturbance (i.e., a winter storm, warm/cold front or tropical cyclone). The longer these conditions persist in the same place, the more extreme the rainfall you’re likely to have.
For example: We know that warmer air can hold more moisture, and moisture is a key ingredient to heavy rainfall, so it stands to reason that a warmer environment overall is capable of generating more extreme rainfall.
Q: Is it just us or are extreme rainfall events happening more often?
DN: Good question! Data from the recent U.S. Climate Assessment show that heavy rainfall is increasing in intensity and frequency — particularly in the U.S. Northeast. At the same time, our vulnerability to extreme rainfall is increasing — and the effects of excessive rain are more impactful — as more people are living in low-lying areas, and land development is changing drainage patterns.
Q: What factors can shift a heavy rain event into one that will produce flash floods?
DN: When there is more rain than the soil can absorb, water will quickly run-off into rivers and creeks to overwhelm culverts and storm drains and cause a flash flood. This depends on several factors including rainfall rate, soil type, terrain and amount of moisture in the soil.
Q: What does NOAA’s National Weather Service do to forecast heavy rainfall and warn of the dangers of flash flooding?
DN: The NWS warning system provides a “Ready, Set, Act” approach to warning people of a hazard. Our meteorologists combine weather and river observations with the best forecasting science to provide a continuous stream of information.
From seven days in advance of extreme rainfall and up to warnings we issue one hour before rainfall and flash flooding occurs, we work directly with emergency management officials to ensure they have the latest information to make important public safety decisions.
Q: When an extreme rainfall event is in the forecast, what should people do ?
DN: Heavy rainfall forecasts should be taken seriously. We have seen time and time again that rain can become a big problem when too much of it comes down too fast.
Before rain is in the forecast, know your risks: Are you in a low-lying area? What is your evacuation route? Then when a Flood Watch or Warning is issued , be ready to move to higher ground. Always heed the instructions of local officials who know your area best.
Most flood-related deaths occur in vehicles. It only takes one foot of water to sweep your vehicle away, so if you see water across the road, remember: Turn around, don’t drown .
Learn more about NOAA’s National Water Model and a new tool developed by NOAA Research called FLASH .
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Home / Essay Samples / Environment / Rain / The Effects Of Heavy Rainfall And How to Reduce Damage
The Effects Of Heavy Rainfall And How to Reduce Damage
- Category: Environment , Law
- Topic: Environmental Issues , Property , Rain
Pages: 2 (1049 words)
Views: 5009
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- Foundation damage- When the soil becomes wet it expands, pushing against your foundation. The constant moistness of the soil causes progressive expansion and when the pressure becomes too much, you would start noticing cracks and leaks on walls and foundation.
- The overflow of gutters- It can clog up gutters with the debris that is swept away with the heavy downpour
- Leaking roofs
- The dripping of water from cracks on walls can also ruin the foundation and result in water damage to the house.
- Mold growth: The wetness and dampness indoors tend to aid mold growth which can reduce the aesthetic value of the home and cause furniture, carpet, mattress damage.
Before the Storm
- Roof Inspection
- Gutters and Other drainage systems
- Ensuring a solid Foundation
- Use of Sandbags
- 6Purchase Flood insurance
During the Storm
- Inspect your property
- Gutters and downspouts
- Roofs if they are leaking
- Walls for any discoloration, peeling wallpaper, peeling paint.
- Report your Claim
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