Follow the Missouri River from its source until it meets the Mississippi river. How does it flooding risk change as it flows east and south? What factors could cause that change?

Floods are the most common (and among the most deadly) natural disasters in the United States. They have brought destruction to every state and nearly every county, and in many areas they are getting worse. As global warming continues to exacerbate sea level rise and extreme weather, our nation's floodplains are expected to grow by approximately 45 percent by century's end. Here's how climate change plays a role in flooding, and how we can better keep our heads above water.

Flooding Facts

What is a flood?

A flood is the accumulation of water over normally dry land. It's caused by the overflow of inland waters (like rivers and streams) or tidal waters, or by an unusual accumulation of water from sources such as heavy rains or dam or levee breaches.

Major types of floods