Cloud Burst: Causes, Prevention, Effects on Human Health

A cloud burst is a sudden, violent downpour that can bring 100–200 mm of rain within an hour over a small area. This phenomenon often results in flash floods, landslides, and destruction of property. But beyond the environmental damage, cloud bursts also pose serious health risks, from infectious diseases to long-term psychological trauma.

In this blog, we’ll answer the most common questions people ask about cloud bursts and explore their hidden link to human health.

What is a Cloud Burst?

A cloud burst is a highly localized extreme rainfall event that happens when cumulonimbus (thunderstorm) clouds release water suddenly in a concentrated area. Unlike normal rain, it overwhelms the ground’s ability to absorb water, leading to flash floods.

Why Does a Cloud Burst Happen?

Cloud bursts occur due to:

• Orographic lifting – Moist air is forced to rise along mountains.

• Convective currents – Hot, humid air rises rapidly and cools.

• Cloud saturation – Clouds accumulate more water than they can hold.

• Sudden release – Rain falls violently within minutes.

Climate change is making cloud bursts more frequent, even in plains, as warmer air holds more moisture.

What Happens During a Cloud Burst?

• Torrential rainfall in a short span.

• Flash floods and landslides.

• Infrastructure collapse (roads, bridges, houses).

• High risk to human lives and livestock.

How Does a Cloud Burst Affect Human Health?

1. Waterborne Diseases

Floods contaminate water, spreading cholera, typhoid, diarrhea, and hepatitis A/E.

2. Vector-Borne Diseases

Stagnant water increases mosquitoes → malaria, dengue, chikungunya outbreaks.

3. Respiratory & Skin Infections

Mold, dampness, and polluted floodwater cause asthma, fungal infections, and skin rashes.

4. Food & Nutrition Crisis

Destroyed crops and contaminated supplies → malnutrition in children and vulnerable groups.

5. Mental Health Issues

Survivors face stress, anxiety, PTSD, and depression due to displacement and losses.

Can a Cloud Burst be Predicted?

• Very difficult, as cloud bursts develop and dissipate in minutes.

• Modern Doppler Weather Radars, satellites, and Numerical Weather Prediction models improve short-term warnings.

• Currently, only early alerts are possible, not exact long-term forecasts.

What Steps Should Be Taken to Prevent or Reduce Cloud Burst Damage?

🔹 Before (Preparedness)

• Install advanced radar systems.

• Set up community-based early warning systems.

• Build flood-resilient infrastructure in risk-prone areas.

🔹 During (Emergency Response)

• Evacuate low-lying areas immediately.

• Provide clean drinking water to prevent disease outbreaks.

• Deploy medical teams for emergency care.

🔹 After (Recovery & Health)

• Distribute vaccinations and medicines to control waterborne infections.

• Ensure mental health counseling for survivors.

• Provide nutritional support to children and pregnant women.

Are Cloud Bursts Increasing Due to Climate Change?

Yes. Rising global temperatures → more evaporation → more moisture in the atmosphere.
This makes intense rain events like cloud bursts more frequent and widespread.

Conclusion

A cloud burst is not just a weather event — it’s a human health hazard. While predicting it is difficult, better preparedness, healthcare response, and climate adaptation can reduce its deadly impacts.

FAQs

• What is cloud burst in simple words?

• Why do cloud bursts happen?

• Can cloud bursts be prevented?

• What is the difference between cloud burst and normal rain?

• What are the effects of cloud burst on human health?

• Which areas are most prone to cloud bursts?

• How can communities stay safe during a cloud burst?