The Growing Danger of Urban Geysers: How Storms are Creating a Potential Hazard
As cities become more populous, storm events become increasingly dangerous to urban populations. In a recent study, researchers have identified a phenomenon known as “urban geysers” that can occur during heavy storms. These geysers are created when stormwater accumulates in a depression within the ground, such as a sidewalk crack, and is then forced upwards by the pressure of the rain. The resulting geysers can reach heights of up to three meters, creating a potential hazard to pedestrians and vehicles passing nearby. The researchers have suggested that developers take this phenomenon into account when designing cities, in order to protect citizens from potential danger during heavy storms.
source: Phys.org