Low-lying areas are very susceptible to flooding.
Flooding is the most common hazard that low-lying areas face due to their geographical characteristics. Here's a detailed explanation:
1. Vulnerability to heavy rainfall:
- Low-lying areas are often located near bodies of water or in coastal regions, making them prone to heavy rainfall and storms.
- These areas have poor natural drainage systems, which means that excess rainfall can quickly accumulate and cause flooding.
2. Proximity to rivers and lakes:
- Low-lying areas are often situated near rivers, lakes, or other water bodies.
- In the event of heavy rainfall or melting snow, these water bodies can overflow and inundate the surrounding low-lying areas.
3. Coastal vulnerability:
- Coastal low-lying areas are at high risk of flooding due to storm surges and tidal waves.
- During severe weather events such as hurricanes or tsunamis, the combination of strong winds and high tides can lead to devastating coastal flooding.
4. Subsidence and sea-level rise:
- Some low-lying areas may experience subsidence, which is the gradual sinking of the land.
- Additionally, the global rise in sea levels due to climate change poses a significant threat to low-lying coastal areas, increasing their susceptibility to flooding.
5. Impact on infrastructure and ecosystems:
- Flooding can cause significant damage to infrastructure such as roads, buildings, and utilities.
- It can also have detrimental effects on ecosystems, leading to the loss of habitats and disruption of natural processes.
In conclusion, low-lying areas are highly susceptible to flooding due to factors such as heavy rainfall, proximity to water bodies, coastal vulnerability, subsidence, and sea-level rise. These areas require appropriate planning, infrastructure, and disaster management strategies to mitigate the risks associated with flooding.

Flooding is the correct answer.

Flooding is a common natural disaster that affects low-lying areas. These areas are particularly susceptible to flooding due to their geographical characteristics. Here is a detailed explanation of why low-lying areas are prone to flooding:

1. Geographical Location:
Low-lying areas are located at lower elevations compared to the surrounding land. They are often situated near bodies of water such as rivers, lakes, or coastlines. This proximity to water sources increases the risk of flooding.

2. Drainage System:
Low-lying areas generally have poor drainage systems. The natural flow of water is restricted due to the lower elevation, making it difficult for water to drain away quickly. As a result, water accumulates in these areas during heavy rainfall or when water levels in nearby water bodies rise.

3. Topography:
The topography of low-lying areas plays a significant role in their susceptibility to flooding. These areas usually have gentle slopes or flat terrain, which prevents water from quickly flowing away. The lack of natural barriers, such as hills or mountains, also allows water to spread across a wide area, leading to flooding.

4. Proximity to Water Bodies:
Low-lying areas near rivers, lakes, or coastlines are at a higher risk of flooding. Heavy rainfall or storms can cause these water bodies to overflow, leading to the inundation of nearby low-lying areas. Additionally, coastal areas are vulnerable to storm surges, which are caused by hurricanes or tsunamis and can result in significant flooding.

5. Climate Change:
With the ongoing climate change, the frequency and intensity of rainfall events are increasing in many regions. This puts low-lying areas at an even higher risk of flooding as they are more likely to experience prolonged or heavy rainfall, resulting in increased water levels and potential flooding.

In conclusion, low-lying areas are highly susceptible to flooding due to their geographical location, poor drainage systems, flat topography, proximity to water bodies, and the impact of climate change. It is crucial to implement effective flood prevention and management strategies in these areas to minimize the damage caused by flooding.