flash floods
This kind occurs within a very short time and is usually as a result of heavy rain, dam break or snow melt. Sometimes, intense rainfall from slow moving thunderstorms can cause it. Flash floods are the most destructive and can be fatal, as people are usually taken by surprise. There is usually no warning, no preparation and the impact can be very swift and devastating.
rapid on-set floods
Similar to flash floods, this type takes slightly longer to develop and the flood can last for a day or two only. It is also very destructive, but does not usually surprise people like Flash floods. With rapid on-set floods, people can quickly put a few things right and escape before it gets very bad.
slow on-set floods
This kind is usually as a result of water bodies over flooding their banks. They tend to develop slowly and can last for days and weeks. They usually spread over many kilometers and occur more in flood plains. The effect of this kind of floods on people is more likely to be due to disease, malnutrition or snakebites.
Dam Failure
When the dam, which direct or control the flow, is broken or there is a hole, the hole will get bigger and bigger until the dam is totally failed, the water will rush down the stream and enter the village to destroy or damage the houses, crops and kill people.