Natural Disaster: Floods
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About this printable Natural Disaster: Floods science reading passage, NGSS-aligned (Grades 4-5)
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Natural Disaster: Floods

Floods happen when too much water overflows onto land that is usually dry. They can occur anywhere in the world and are one of the most common natural disasters. Floods can be caused by heavy rain, melting snow, or when rivers and lakes overflow their banks.
Some floods happen quickly, called flash floods, while others build up slowly over days or weeks. Floods can damage buildings, wash away roads, and even move cars. They can also bring dangers like contaminated water and electrical hazards.
To stay safe during a flood, it's important to listen to weather warnings and follow evacuation orders. People who live in flood-prone areas often prepare by having emergency kits and knowing safe routes to higher ground.
While floods can be destructive, they also play a role in nature. They can bring nutrients to farmland and create new habitats for animals. However, the safety of people and property is always the top priority when dealing with floods.
Comprehension quiz (6 questions)
1. What causes floods?
2. What is a flash flood?
3. Why are floods dangerous?
4. How can people prepare for floods?
5. What positive effect can floods have on nature?
6. What should people do during a flood warning?
Common Core standards for Natural Disaster: Floods
Ask and answer questions to demonstrate understanding of a text, referring explicitly to the text as the basis for the answers.
Determine the main idea of a text and explain how it is supported by key details; summarize the text.
Determine the meaning of general academic and domain-specific words or phrases in a text relevant to a grade 4 topic or subject area.
Determine two or more main ideas of a text and explain how they are supported by key details; summarize the text.
Perfect for the way you teach
- Build comprehension skills
- Auto-graded quiz
- Differentiated reading
- Read together at home
- Improve fluency
- Quiet reading time
- Reading curriculum support
- Independent practice
- Track Lexile growth


