flashflood
Definition
Noun: A flashflood is a sudden, rapid, and extremely dangerous local flood. It is characterized by a great volume of water arriving in a very short duration, typically within minutes or a few hours after intense rainfall, a dam or levee failure, or a sudden release of water.
Usage
The word flashflood is used to describe a specific, violent type of flooding event. It emphasizes the speed and surprise of the event. - It is commonly used in weather warnings, news reports, and safety instructions. - It functions as a countable noun (e.g., a flashflood, several flashfloods).
Examples
- The National Weather Service issued a flashflood warning for the canyon area.
- Hikers are advised to be cautious of flashfloods during the monsoon season.
- A sudden flashflood swept through the town, damaging homes and roads.
- The dry riverbed can become a deadly torrent during a flashflood.
Advanced Usage
- Flashflood-prone area: A region susceptible to sudden floods.
- Building in flashflood-prone areas requires special permits.
- Flashflood watch/warning: Official alerts issued by meteorological agencies. A "watch" means conditions are favorable; a "warning" means one is imminent or occurring.
- A flashflood warning means you should seek higher ground immediately.
Variants and Related Words
- Flash flood (noun): The more common two-word spelling, identical in meaning to "flashflood."
- The single-word form "flashflood" is also accepted.
- Flash flooding (noun): The phenomenon or occurrence of flash floods.
- The storm caused widespread flash flooding.
Synonyms
- Torrent: A strong and fast-moving stream of water.
- Spate: A sudden flood in a river.
- Deluge: A severe flood; a great downpour of rain. (Note: "Deluge" can imply a longer duration than a flashflood.)
Related Phrases and Idioms
- To be caught in a flashflood: To be unexpectedly trapped by a sudden flood.
- The campers were nearly caught in a flashflood.
- Flashflood of emotion: A metaphorical use describing a sudden, overwhelming feeling. (This is an idiomatic extension, not the primary definition).
- A flashflood of grief overwhelmed her.
Noun
-
a sudden local flood of great volume and short duration
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