A cloudburst is a very intense and localized rainfall event, typically occurring over a short period.
This rapid downpour can overwhelm drainage systems, leading to flash floods, landslides, and severe waterlogging, especially in urban and mountainous regions.
Cloudbursts occur when warm, moist air rises rapidly and condenses into heavy rain-bearing clouds. If atmospheric conditions prevent the rain from dispersing gradually, large volumes of water accumulate in the clouds. When the accumulated moisture is suddenly released, it results in an intense downpour.
These events are often associated with thunderstorms, strong winds, and, in some cases, hail. While cloudbursts can happen anywhere, they are more common in hilly or mountainous regions, where topography forces air to rise quickly, increasing condensation and precipitation rates. Due to their sudden and unpredictable nature, cloudbursts can pose significant risks, making them a concern for disaster management and urban planning.
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