Read the passage and answer the question. Flooding is an overflowing of water onto land that is normally dry. Floods can happen during heavy rains, when ocean waves come on shore, when snow melts quickly or when dams or levees break. Damaging flooding may happen with only a few inches of water, or it may cover a house to the rooftop. Floods can occur within minutes or over a long period, and may last days, weeks or longer. Floods are the most common and widespread of all weather-related natural disasters. Flash floods are the most dangerous kind of floods, because they combine the destructive power of a flood with incredible speed. Flash floods occur when heavy rainfall exceeds the ability of the ground to absorb it. They also occur when water fills normally dry creeks or streams or enough water accumulates for streams to overtop their banks, causing rapid rises of water in a short amount of time. Effective flood management strategies, such as early warning systems and proper urban planning, are essential to reduce risks. Increasing public awareness and strengthening disaster preparedness can save lives and minimise economic losses during such events. What is the tone of the passage?

1. Emotional and nostalgic
2. Humorous and lighthearted
3. Informative and cautionary
4. Critical and argumentative