Discuss TWO negative impacts of line thunderstorms on the natural environment in the interior of South Africa
1. Flash floods: Line thunderstorms in the interior of South Africa can bring heavy downpours of rain in a short period of time. This can lead to flash flooding, which can cause significant damage to the natural environment. The excessive water can erode soil, wash away vegetation, and disrupt ecosystems. In addition, flash floods can also result in loss of life and property damage, impacting both the natural environment and human settlements.
2. Wildfires: Line thunderstorms can also bring lightning strikes, which can ignite wildfires in the dry interior regions of South Africa. These wildfires can spread quickly and devastate habitats, destroy vegetation, and threaten the survival of wildlife. In addition, wildfires can release harmful pollutants into the air, further impacting the natural environment. The loss of vegetation due to wildfires can also lead to increased soil erosion and loss of biodiversity in the affected areas.