Droughts signify needed moisture but when that moisture comes too quickly on parched soils this can lead to flash flooding.

Some of the science behind this is well known and it’s happened many times in history. It’s been described as weather whiplash or precipitation whiplash. One of the most notable recent events of this phenomena was the devastating flash flooding in Texas in July of 2025. 

Now let’s take a closer look at what happens to the soil when a drought is occurring and how that can lead to flash flooding. A couple of different changes in soil can occur when drought is happening. Research has shown that drought can harden soil. When this happens, there is less absorption of rain and that can lead to flash flooding. Another problem with drought stricken soil is it can become hydrophobic which means it will repel water rather than absorb it. This again will lead to rain not being soaked up by the soil as it usually would. 

While flash flooding is extremely dangerous and these extreme precipitation events are not the ideal way to end drought, it is known that there have been several instances particularly in Texas where these extreme numbers can help to lift areas out of drought conditions, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). 

Each instance of precipitation whiplash can be studied. Although scientists already know of many events and have learned from them to better be prepared for upcoming events, there is still much to be researched. NOAA says scientists know some of how soil is changed during drought, but there’s still more to learn when it comes to soil type. There are also complex issues when we go from drought to extreme precipitation where runoff needs to be considered as well as topography and how water infiltrates soil. 

While this wasn’t the last event we will see with precipitation whiplash, we can look back on past events and hope to learn and prepare for the future.