Strong winds generated during severe cyclones can cause extensive property damage and create wind-borne debris that can cause injury to people and damage to buildings. Cyclones can also produce very heavy rainfall, which can cause both flash flooding and widespread flooding. Flooding can damage properties but will also cut roads and other infrastructure. The combination of damage from wind and rain can affect a community for many months. Storm surge is a rapid rise in sea level above the normal tide levels caused by strong onshore winds generated by an approaching cyclone.