Every region of the United States has their own specific weather-related concerns. In the Midwest one of the most common natural occurrences is flooding during the springtime. Here are three reasons why excessive water accumulation is common in the region at this time of the year:
Weather
Flooding regularlly results from heavy rainfall, and snowmelt that accumulates in nearby rivers and streams. These factors are worsened by clogged storm drains, and inadequate drainage systems. Warm air from the Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic Ocean creates moist conditions over much of the region, leading to increased precipitation.
Additionally, storms that develop in this area can be fueled by an abundance of moisture and unstable atmospheric conditions resulting from the interaction between cold northern air masses colliding with warmer southern ones. This clash creates instability in the atmosphere, which helps fuel thunderstorms, resulting in heavier rains than those seen at other times throughout the year. Finally, topography can also play a role as valleys may cause weather patterns which lead to enhanced rain events across the Midwest.
Soil
Midwestern soil often has a low absorption rate which prevents water from seeping away quickly enough after rainstorms or melting snow. This causes it to accumulate on the surface of land instead of being absorbed by the ground, creating increased levels of runoff that can result in flooding. The ground’s low absorption rate is often due to its high clay content, which makes it difficult for water to penetrate the surface.
Clay is less porous than sand or loam, so it does not absorb as much moisture from the air or precipitation. Additionally, Midwestern soils are typically more alkaline in nature, leading to decreased absorption rates of certain nutrients and minerals that plants need for growth. The prevalence of hardpan layers further restricts the amount of water penetration, and can cause run-off during heavy rain events instead of allowing infiltration into deeper levels of the soil profile. As such, careful management practices must be implemented in order to improve drainage conditions and increase nutrient availability for proper agricultural production in these regions.
Overflow
Floods are often caused by bodies of water, such as lakes or reservoirs, becoming overfilled with excess rainfall. This results in overflow onto surrounding lands, leading to extensive damage for many residents throughout the region each spring season.
In 2008, the Missouri River overflowed in Dakota Dunes, South Dakota, causing damage to homes and businesses along the riverbank. The same year, heavy rains caused the Mississippi River to rise above flood stage at numerous locations across Iowa and Illinois, resulting in extensive property damage and road closures. In 2011, a levee on Bird’s Point near Cairo broke, leading to massive flooding throughout southeast Missouri.
More recently, in 2019, rising waters from both dams and creeks overwhelmed by heavy rainfall over several days flooded many areas around Des Moines. These events have taken their toll on local communities, but can be explained by science and changing weather patterns, which is hopeful because they can be studied and, eventually, prevented.
Conclusion
Flooding during springtime is a common occurrence in the Midwest due to a combination of factors. The region experiences heavy rainfall, has soil with a low absorption rate, and is prone to overflow from bodies of water. While the damage caused by flooding can be devastating for local communities, understanding the scientific reasons behind these events can help us develop better preventative measures in the future. Through careful management practices and improved drainage systems, we can work to mitigate the impact of flooding and protect those who call the Midwest home.