översvämningsvåg

An översvämningsvåg, or flood wave, is a rapid rise in water level that travels downstream along a river or other body of water. It is typically caused by a sudden and significant increase in water inflow, such as from heavy rainfall, rapid snowmelt, or the failure of a dam or levee. The wave is characterized by a sharp increase in discharge and water elevation, followed by a gradual decrease as it propagates.

The speed at which an översvämningsvåg travels depends on factors like the river's slope, the volume of water involved, and the channel's geometry. These waves can cause significant damage to infrastructure and ecosystems along their path. Predicting and managing översvämningsvågor is crucial for flood forecasting and disaster preparedness. Early warning systems and effective land-use planning in flood-prone areas are important mitigation strategies. The impact can range from minor inundation to catastrophic destruction, depending on the wave's magnitude and the vulnerability of the affected region.