Whoosh! How fast are flash floods?

Whoosh! How fast are flash floods?

From Orbit: Science for kids on the move! by Cumbre Kids

May 13, 2026 · 27 min

About this episode

This episode explores the science of flash floods and safety measures with hydrologist Nichole Cronce.

Ever wonder what exactly is a flash flood? Are all floods flash floods? We have a fascinating episode featuring Nichole Cronce, a hydrologist from the National Weather Service. Join Rob, Hank and Sam as we learn not only about the science of floods, but how to stay safe when the storms get strong or the river starts running high! Episode Extra for middle school: LINK Three questions for families to discuss: How will we know if a flood might happen? Where is a safe place we can go if there is flooding? What should we bring with us to stay safe if we need to leave quickly? NOAA's Jetsteam resources for families: The Hydrologic Cycle - Great for younger audiences and includes several activities to demonstrate the concepts. ( LINK ) Flash Floods - more info about flash floods from NOAA ( LINK ) River Forecast Centers - A more comprehensive understanding of river forecasting ( LINK ) 💬 Submit your kids' questions! ⁠⁠www.cumbrekids.org/questions⁠⁠ 💛 Support this podcast by joining The Curious Club: ⁠⁠LINK⁠⁠ 🎧 More podcasts by Cumbre Kids: ⁠⁠Learn more⁠⁠ 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 A message for parents about our values: ⁠⁠LINK --- This work was funded by the National Academies of Sciences…

People in this episode

Hosts: Rob, Hank, Sam

Guest: Nichole Cronce

Topics covered

  • flash floods
  • hydrology
  • safety during floods
  • science education
  • family discussions

Keywords

  • flash flood
  • hydrologist
  • safety
  • National Weather Service
  • NOAA
  • flood forecasting
  • family discussion

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: National Weather Service, NOAA, National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine

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