Question

To what extent did natural factors cause these floods compared to human activities?

Answer 1

Floods are caused by a combination of natural factors and human activities. Natural factors such as heavy rainfall, overflowing rivers, cyclones and cloudbursts can trigger floods. However, human activities can make their effects worse. Deforestation, unplanned urbanisation, construction on floodplains, poor drainage and encroachment of natural water channels reduce the land's ability to absorb and carry excess water. Therefore, while natural factors are often the immediate cause of floods, human activities can greatly increase their severity and damage.