Floods are one of the most common hazard in Asia especially in South East Asia. Flood effects can be local, impacting a neighborhood or community, or very large, affecting entire river basins.
However, all floods are not alike. Some floods develop slowly, sometimes over a period of days.
But flash floods can develop quickly, sometimes in just a few minutes and without any visible signs of rain. Flash floods often have a dangerous wall of roaring water that carries rocks, mud, and other debris and can sweep away most things in its path. Overland flooding occurs outside a defined river or stream, such as when a levee is breached, but still can be destructive. Flooding can also occur when a dam breaks, producing effects similar to flash floods.
Be aware of flood hazards no matter where you live, but especially if you live in a low-lying area, near water or downstream from a dam.
Figure: Flood [Photo Credit: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flood]
