Flooding is a natural phenomenon.
Periodically, rain and melting snow cause rivers to rise and streams and lakes to overflow their banks onto adjacent land areas. These areas, known as floodplains, have been carved out by floods for the specific purpose of carrying excess floodwaters. Since times of settlement, little regard has been given to the purpose and function of floodplains. Homes, businesses, and even whole communities have been built in floodplain areas. The development of these floodplains has resulted in continual and, oftentimes, severe social and economical loss.