Flood myths are stories found in many cultures that describe a great flood sent by deities to cleanse the world or punish humanity. These tales often feature a hero who survives the flood, usually by building a large boat or ark. Examples include the Epic of Gilgamesh from ancient Mesopotamia and the Noah's Ark story in the Bible. These myths serve various purposes, such as explaining natural disasters, teaching moral lessons, or preserving cultural history. They reflect humanity's relationship with nature and the belief in divine intervention. Flood myths can be found in cultures across the globe, from the Hindu tale of Manu to the Māori story of Rūaumoko.