The Difference Between Flash Floods and Regular Floods

In the afternoon of May 27th, 2018, after over 8 inches of rain fell in a span of two hours, the historic Main Street in Ellicott City, Maryland was flooded. This is what meteorologist would call a flash flood. Although both can happen in Maryland, how is a flash flood different from a regular flood?

1. Flash floods happen within a short period of time and often catch people off guard.

2. Flash floods happen gradually and last for days and sometimes weeks.

3. Flash floods only happen during thunderstorms.

4. There are no differences

Final answer:

A flash flood occurs rapidly, usually due to excessive rain in a short period, and can catch people by surprise, contrasting with a regular flood that develops gradually over days or weeks.

Explanation:

A flash flood is different from a regular flood in that a flash flood happens very quickly, often within a short time after excessive rainfall, and can catch people off guard. This is in contrast to a regular flood, which may happen gradually over a longer period of time such as several days or weeks. Flash floods don't only happen during thunderstorms, although they are a common cause. Regular floods and flash floods both can happen in areas like Maryland, but their quick onset and rapid flooding are what make flash floods particularly dangerous and devastating.