Despite the fact that the flood in America is not too frequent, it is widespread. Confirmation of this fact can serve as floods that occurred in 1927, 1993 and 2009. The main feature of American floods is that in most cases they are caused by hurricanes. In addition, they are sometimes promoted by the relief of some American states. For example, during prolonged rains, canyons instantly fill with water, which quickly leads to truly catastrophic consequences.
Flood in America 1927
One of the most devastating floods in America is the Mississippi River Flood in 1927. In terms of destructiveness, this natural disaster is often compared to the notorious Hurricane Katrina 2005. In the summer of 1926, heavy rains began, due to which the water level in many tributaries of the Mississippi became critical. And in April 1927, long-term and incessant precipitation triggered the exit of the named river from the banks.
The stream almost doubled the height of Niagara Falls. No wonder he easily demolished a dam near Greenville. A few more dams were damaged. In total, 10 states were flooded. Arkansas suffered the most. Water began to decline only by August. The effects of the flood were catastrophic:
- 700 thousand people were left without housing;
- 246 people died;
- property damage amounted to $ 400 million.
It is worth noting that this disaster had significant political and social consequences. In addition, it is reflected in culture (literature and music).
1993 America Flood
The cause of this flood was constant snowfall and rain, which lasted throughout the autumn and winter of 1992-1993. As a result, the water level in many rivers exceeded the norm by 7 times. Mississippi and Missouri, as well as their tributaries, have spilled. The natural disaster lasted about six months (April-October). The consequences were as follows:
- 32 people died;
- 800 thousand km 2 were flooded;
- tens of thousands of houses were destroyed.
After the flood described, the American authorities began to revise the policy regarding floodplains. Much attention was paid to the location of dams and dams, as well as the control of wetlands. The government also decided to buy land from the floodplains in the flood areas. Natural zones were organized here, the flooding of which will be less dangerous.
America Flood 2008
In the summer of 2008, a number of cyclones hit the territory of the United States, which provoked heavy rains that caused flooding. Thousands of people were forced to leave their homes. In Iowa, a river flooded an entire city. Roads were blurred, bridges were destroyed, there was no electricity. Water began to subside only half a month after the "start" of the disaster. As a result of this natural disaster, 24 people died (a flood in Russia in 2012 killed 171 lives), and in Iowa, 40 thousand people were left without housing. In addition, farms were flooded, causing food prices to rise substantially.
