Torrential rain: causes, consequences and what to do

A torrential rain is a meteorological phenomenon characterized by a intense and abundant water precipitation in a short period of time. During a torrential rain, the amount of water that falls from the sky is considerably greater than the average rain, resulting in a very intense and continuous rain. This usually manifests itself in the form of large and heavy water drops that fall quickly from the clouds, which gives a more impact cause when touching the earth’s surface.

This type of rain can have a significant negative impact In the environment and in human activities, since the large amount of water can flood streets, rivers and low areas. In addition, visibility is reduced due to the intensity of the rain, which makes driving and other outdoor activities difficult. They are an important aspect of meteorology and its prediction and They can vary in their intensity and durationbut in general, they are characterized by their Powerful and fast water flow From heaven to earth.

There are numerous causes that can cause torrential rain. The main ones are the following:

• Atmospheric instability: When a warm and humid air rises and finds a colder air mass at higher altitudes, atmospheric instability increases. This feeds the formation of vertical development clouds, such as cumulonimbus clouds, which are conducive to heavy rains.
• Condensation and heat release: This occurs as wet air rises, cools and saturates. During the condensation, latent heat is released, which makes the surrounding air heat and ride even faster. This process reinforces the convection and formation of storm clouds.
• Meteorological systems interaction: The convergence of air masses, such as a warm and humid current that clashes with a mass of cold air, can generate vertical ascent and conditions conducive to torrential rains.
• Topography: Torrential rains can be more frequent in mountainous areas due to orography. The humid air that rises on the slopes of a mountain cools and condenses, resulting in strong rainfall in the ascending face of the mountain.
• Meteorological fronts: The interaction of cold and warm fronts can generate conducive conditions for torrential rains, especially when the mass of warm and humid air is forced to ascend on the mass of cold air. It is very common that there are torrential rains when there is clash of fronts.
• Wind convergence at low levels: When the winds converge on the surface, the air rises and cools, which can trigger heavy rains. This occurs in a lower number of occasions.

Depending on the intensity and duration of torrential rain, the consequences can be the following:

• Floods: One of the most common consequences of torrential rains is flooding. The large amount of water that falls in a short period of time can overwhelm rivers and streams, as well as flooding low areas and streets in urban areas. This can cause significant material damage to homes, infrastructure and vehicles. Here you can read about the causes and consequences of floods.
• Earth landslides: Torrential rains can saturate the soil, which increases the risk of landslides and mud avalanches in mountainous areas or inclined terrain. These events become dangerous for people and cause damage to property. In this other post we tell you more about land landslides: causes, consequences and how to prevent them.
• Interruption of public services: Floods resulting from torrential rains can interrupt essential public services, such as electricity and drinking water supply. In addition, they can affect the operation of transport systems, such as roads and bridges, which triggers problems in mobility and access to affected areas.
• Damage to agriculture: The most intense torrential rains damage crops by flooding fields and causing soil erosion. This has a significant impact on agricultural production and food security.
• Danger for human life: Sudden floods and landslides can represent a real danger to human life. People can be trapped in their homes or vehicles, and water currents can be extremely dangerous for those who are trapped in them. The same goes for animals.
• Environmental impact: Torrential rains can have a negative impact on the environment, causing soil erosion, contamination of bodies of water due to the drag of pollutants and the destruction of natural habitats. Know here the different types of environmental impacts.
• Economic damage: Material damage and interruption of economic activities due to torrential rains can have a high economic cost for local communities and governments.

In case of facing torrential rain, it is essential to take security measures to protect oneself and the property. Given the amount of liters of water that falls during a torrential rain, the situation can become dangerous quickly. We will list some important guidelines to follow during a flood or downpour of this type:

• Stay aware of weather alerts and local climatic conditions. Listen through radio, television or mobile applications to obtain updated information about torrential rain and possible evacuations. In case of finding yourself in the middle of a sudden downpour, it is essential to keep calm. Confusion and panic can increase the risk of injury.
• You never try to cross streets or flooded roads. The force of water can be misleading and drag you easily. Even relatively small amounts of moving water can be dangerous.
• Search for refuge in a safe place, as a high ground or a flood -resistant building, if possible. Always keep an escape route in mind. Avoid seeking refuge in basements, especially if they are not well ventilated. Sudden floods can hinder the exit and put your life at risk.
• If you are in your car during the event, go immediately and look for high ground. Vehicles can be dragged by water currents even if they seem safe. If you are in danger or need help, call the emergency authorities and communicate your location as precisely as possible.
• If the torrential rain threatens to flood your home, Disconnect electricity and gas To avoid additional risks.

You already know more about the causes of torrential rain, its consequences and what to do if you are in the situation of facing one. Now we recommend you read about what is cold drop and types of rainfall.

If you want to read more articles similar to Torrential rain: causes, consequences and what to dowe recommend that you enter our category of meteorological phenomena.