A flood occurs when water overflows its’ boundaries and submerges land that is typically dry. It may be caused by prolonged rain, melting show, compromised drainage systems, or when rivers rise to the point that they overrun their banks. Floods can impact small areas, such as neighborhoods, or larger areas, like multiple states.
Flash floods occur as a result of powerful rainfall or damage to a dam or levee. The waters rise very quickly and many times, without warning. Flash floods are the number one weather-related killer in the United States. Most flash flood deaths are from people in cars, who try to drive through flooded areas, not realizing the true depth of the water. Cars can be swept away with the water, putting those within in grave danger. NOAA National Weather Service began a campaign to the public about the danger of walking or diving through flood waters. The campaign, called TADD (Turn Around Don’t Drown), stresses people not to underestimate the force and power of water. An adult can be toppled by only six inches of fast-moving water. Additionally, a vehicle can be swept away with a mere 2 feet of water. Paying attention to the weather and heeding the advice of the local authorities will drastically reduce the chances of injury or death.
Sources:
http://www.weatherwizkids.com/weather-rain.htm
http://tadd.weather.gov/tadd-intro.shtml
https://www.floodsmart.gov/floodsmart/pages/flooding_flood_risks/ffr_overview.jsp