How does replacing grass with concrete and asphalt impact the frequency of floods?
The area can absorb rainwater, decreasing floods. The area cannot absorb rainwater, increasing floods. The area will have no impact on the frequency of floods. The rainwater seeps quickly underground decreasing floods.
Replacing grass with concrete and asphalt typically impacts the frequency of floods by increasing the likelihood of flooding. This is because:
Concrete and asphalt are impermeable surfaces, meaning they do not allow water to seep into the ground. As a result, rainwater runs off these surfaces more quickly and in larger volumes, leading to increased surface runoff. This can overwhelm drainage systems and natural waterways, contributing to a higher frequency and intensity of flooding events. In contrast, grass and other vegetation can absorb rainwater, reducing runoff and helping to mitigate flooding.