What does the term "flooding" mean?

The term "flooding" refers specifically to the submergence of land due to the rising of water levels, typically from a river, lake, or other bodies of water overflowing their banks. This phenomenon can occur as a result of heavy rainfall, snowmelt, dam failure, or rapid upstream water flow, causing water to spread over areas that are usually dry. Flooding can lead to significant environmental, economic, and social impacts, including damage to property, infrastructure, and ecosystems.

In contrast, an increase in water temperature does not define flooding but may affect water bodies' ecology. A reduction in water levels indicates a drought-like condition rather than flooding, and the formation of new river paths typically relates to riverbank erosion or sediment deposition rather than the water rising to flood land. The focus for understanding flooding lies in the consequences of excess water inundating areas not designed to be underwater.