Floods

In your book, Our Wondrous World (Chapter 2), the Godavari says that most of the time it flows gently, helping life grow all around it. But it never forgets that it is powerful.

When there is too much rain, all the water rushes into the river. It becomes faster, deeper and bigger, and it overflows its banks. This is a flood. The water floods houses, fields and roads, causing great damage. People and animals often have to leave their homes to stay safe.

Trees help to stop floods. They slow down the rainwater and help the soil soak it up. Where there are no trees, the water runs off the land faster and causes flooding.

Floods cause many problems. Dirty water harms safe drinking and people's health, and diseases spread. Broken roads stop travel and transport. Lost crops mean less food. No electricity means no lights, fans or phones. Damaged homes leave people without shelter, and when schools shut, children cannot learn.