ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Flood control

Flood control means keeping water from going in places where it should not be. Sometimes when there is too much rain, rivers or other bodies of water overflow, and the water spills into nearby areas. This can be harmful to people and properties. Flood control helps prevent this from happening.

Think of a bathtub: When you fill it with too much water, the water can spill over the edge, right? Flood control is like making sure the bathtub doesn't overflow. We dig canals, build walls, and install pumps and gates to direct water away from homes, businesses, and crops.

Flood control is also important because it prevents erosion. Erosion happens when water moves too quickly and washes away soil and other materials. By controlling how water moves, we can reduce the erosion that can damage the environment around us.

In short, flood control is a way we protect people, homes, and our environment by managing the flow of water.