Conclusion
Based on the study, it has been discovered that Flood waters carry nutrients and sediments, which are deposited on flood plains, enriching the soil reducing or obviating the need for nourishment through artificial fertilizers. Inundated areas retain soil moisture that helps raise crops without irrigation. Rice paddies are sometimes flooded deliberately to take advantage of this natural fertilization process. A river basin is an ecological unit interconnecting spawning habitats with rearing habitats for a variety of species and other aquatic systems. Seasonal habitats on the flood plain, created by variable flow regimes, are essential for various stages of the life cycle of species. Floods provide an ecological trigger for both the spawning and migration of certain species. However, immediate effects of flooding include loss of human life, damage to property, destruction of crops, loss of livestock, non[1]functioning of infrastructure facilities and deterioration of health condition owing to waterborne diseases. Flash floods, with little or no warning time, cause more deaths than slow-rising riverine floods. In monetary terms, the extent of damages caused by floods is on the one hand dependent on the extent, depth and duration of flooding, and the velocities of flows in the flooded areas. On the other hand it is dependent on the vulnerabilities of economic activities and communities. The huge psycho-social effects on flood victims and their families can traumatize them for long periods of time. The loss of loved ones can 53 generate deep impacts, especially on children. Displacement from one’s home, loss of property, loss of memorabilia and livelihoods, decreased levels of security in the aftermath of floods and in temporary shelters, and disruption to business and social affairs can cause stress. The stress of overcoming these losses can be overwhelming and produce lasting psychological effects. Therefore efforts should be made by government to create awareness on early warnings made by metrological departments.
