Arroyo

An arroyo is a dry or nearly dry creek, gully, or small canyon, particularly in the southwestern United States and parts of Latin America. It's formed by intermittent streams, meaning water flows only after heavy rain or snowmelt. These channels often exhibit steep banks and a sandy or gravelly bed. arroyo formation is a natural process of erosion, carved over time by the power of concentrated water flow. The depth and width can vary significantly based on the surrounding terrain and the volume and frequency of water that passes through. When filled with water during a flash flood, an arroyo can become a dangerous and destructive force.

Arroyo meaning with examples

• The hikers carefully crossed the arroyo, mindful of the deep, sandy bottom that could easily trap their boots. The arid landscape surrounding the arroyo showed signs of infrequent but powerful water erosion, illustrating the dramatic forces of nature at play. Despite the lack of visible water, they knew it could become a raging torrent at any moment during a sudden thunderstorm.
• Following the heavy downpour, the normally dry arroyo transformed into a muddy, fast-flowing river. The children were warned repeatedly not to play near the arroyo, especially after the rainfall. The power of the arroyo during the flood was apparent from the debris left high on the banks, demonstrating how much water had flowed.
• We planned our desert hike, calculating the best time to cross the wide, dry arroyo to reach the other side before nightfall. Its sandy bed and steep, sun-baked walls presented a challenge. Careful consideration was given to the possibility of a flash flood if the weather changed unexpectedly. It's essential to be cautious navigating these channels.
• The artist often painted the stark beauty of the arroyos, capturing the contrast between the sun-baked earth and the shadows of the canyon walls. The arroyo served as a focal point in the artwork, highlighting the desolate beauty of the area. The artist intended to emphasize the natural erosion displayed in the features. His work captured the ephemeral nature of water.
• After the earthquake, several previously stable areas around the town developed new arroyos, exposing cracks in the earth and further destabilizing the foundations of some homes. The resulting landslides exposed previously unseen features. Residents were told to move out of harm's way due to the hazards. Survey teams were then sent to assess the damage.