Yes, the whole Earth was covered for 40 days and 40 nights.
No.
No, but a more localized flood did occur and the story was passed down through oral tradition.
Man is a marvelous curiosity … he thinks he is the Creator's pet … he even believes the Creator loves him; has a passion for him; sits up nights to admire him; yes and watch over him and keep him out of trouble. He prays to him and thinks He listens. Isn't it a quaint idea.
-- Mark Twain
I haven't really given this much thought. But upon reflection, I think what must have happened was that there was a big-ass flood in the region where the Bible writer guys lived, and they just assumed the whole earth was covered by water. (Is that even possible?)
You guys can believe whatever you want. I'm just glad my belief system isn't tied to a literal acceptance of what's in the Bible.
Thank you, Lord.