Can We Predict and Prevent a Flash Flood Disaster in the Desert?

Abstract

Desert flash floods are an intense and unpredictable natural phenomenon that kill many individuals and destroy many homes. This study focuses on the formation of flash floods in the desert, their impact, and the technology used to predict and prevent flooding events. A reading of the primary literature found that, despite the destruction caused by flash floods, they are a necessary phenomenon to recharge groundwater, support plant diversity, and maintain the population of native fish species. Predicting locations prone to flash floods became possible when GIS and remote sensing technology became more advanced. However, it is still very difficult to accurately identify all areas prone to flash floods. The timing of flash floods is even harder to determine. It is important to educate the public on the risk of living in areas prone to flash floods.