Deforestation can permanently increase an area's risk of flooding by altering the water cycle and reducing the amount of water absorbed and retained in the soil. Trees and other vegetation help to absorb and retain rainwater, reducing the amount of runoff that reaches rivers and streams. When forests are cleared, there is less vegetation to absorb and retain water, causing an increase in the amount of runoff and a decrease in the amount of water that seeps into the ground.
Additionally, deforestation can alter the topography of the land, making it more susceptible to flooding. Removing trees and vegetation can weaken the soil structure, leading to soil erosion and the formation of gullies, which can carry water quickly downstream. Without the tree roots to hold soil in place, sediment can be easily carried downstream, further exacerbating the risk of flooding.
Ultimately, deforestation can lead to increased flooding as well as a range of other environmental issues, including soil erosion, loss of biodiversity, and climate change.
Explain how deforestation can permanently increase an area’s risk of flooding.
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