Question

Explain how deforestation can permanently increase an area’s risk of flooding.
short paragraph

Answer 1

When forests are removed, the canopy and root systems that intercept rainfall, promote infiltration, and hold soil in place are lost, so more water runs off the surface quickly and soils erode. That increased surface runoff produces higher, sharper stream peaks and carries sediment that raises riverbeds and clogs channels, reducing their capacity to convey water. If the land is converted to agriculture, pasture, or urban use and soils are compacted or degraded, the landscape’s ability to absorb and slowly release water is not restored, so flood magnitude and frequency remain permanently higher.