verifiedCite
While every effort has been made to follow citation style rules, there may be some discrepancies. Please refer to the appropriate style manual or other sources if you have any questions.
Select Citation Style

How does terrain affect flash floods?

Steep slopes and large areas of impervious surfaces can cause water to run off more rapidly, increasing the speed and extent of flooding compared with other landscapes characterized by gentle slopes and water-permeable soils. In addition, areas in which recent wildfire activity has burned much of the vegetation are also prone to flash flooding.