Some floods occur seasonally when winter or spring rains, coupled with melting snow, fill river basins with too much water. These floods become more severe when the ground is frozen or ice covered and there is ice on the river. Torrential rains from decaying hurricanes or tropical systems can also produce river flooding. Flooding can also occur in low lying areas along shore lines from storm surges and heavy rains due to major storms such as hurricanes. The frequency and severity of shore line flooding increases with the loss of tidal forested wetlands, the increase in impervious surfaces, and rising sea level.
Many people like to live near a body of running fresh water.
Rivers and streams provide recreation, food, and, of course, drinking water. But when rain or melting snow produces large amounts of water, rivers and streams may flood, causing problems for those who live nearby. Floods endanger the lives of humans and animals and damage property. Bridge abutments, roadways, sewer lines, and other structures within floodways are damaged. Floods delay traffic and interfere with the economic use of the land.