How does a torrential stream behave?

A torrential stream is characterized by its behavior of flowing predominantly during specific weather events, particularly after heavy rainfall. This type of stream often experiences rapid fluctuations in flow, with periods of intense flow following significant rain, leading to surges in water volume and speed. The term "torrential" itself suggests a surge, aligning with the idea that such streams can quickly overflow their banks or change condition dramatically in response to rainfall.

The fact that a torrential stream may dry up during times of low precipitation means that it does not have a constant flow throughout the year, nor does it flow during drought conditions. Such streams are typically intermittent, highlighting their dependency on specific weather events rather than a continuous or steady flow. This behavior is essential to understand in hydrology and land surveying, as it affects flood risk assessments, sediment transport studies, and water resource management.

In summary, it's the short-lived, intense flows that define a torrential stream, making the chosen answer accurate in describing its behavior.