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Predicting floods is tricky


By any metric — from financial ruin to the human toll — floods rank alongside earthquakes, hurricanes, and tsunamis as the worst natural disasters. In fact, the most deadly disaster of the 20th century was the China floods of 1931, which may have resulted in more than a million deaths.

But predicting floods is notoriously difficult. Floods depend on a complex mixture of rainfall, soil moisture, the recent history of precipitation, and much more. Snowmelt and storm surges can also contribute to unexpected flooding. Thanks to NASA, however, the predictions are improving.

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Bottom line: New NASA video on flood prediction



from EarthSky http://ift.tt/1Vub1GH

By any metric — from financial ruin to the human toll — floods rank alongside earthquakes, hurricanes, and tsunamis as the worst natural disasters. In fact, the most deadly disaster of the 20th century was the China floods of 1931, which may have resulted in more than a million deaths.

But predicting floods is notoriously difficult. Floods depend on a complex mixture of rainfall, soil moisture, the recent history of precipitation, and much more. Snowmelt and storm surges can also contribute to unexpected flooding. Thanks to NASA, however, the predictions are improving.

Enjoying EarthSky? Sign up for our free daily newsletter today!

Bottom line: New NASA video on flood prediction



from EarthSky http://ift.tt/1Vub1GH

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