BOSCASTLE FLOOD 2004 Flashcards
(4 cards)
1
Q
Boscastle location and population
A
Devon, 45,000, Town is on the floodplain of the River Cherwell
2
Q
Causes
A
- Previous wet weather left the ground saturated
- Impermeable rock increased surface runoff
- Construction of low bridges over river caused debris to get trapped
- Over previous years the rivers had become filled with sediment which reduced amount of water it could carry
3
Q
Impacts
A
- Sewage and debris led to increased water pollution
- Tourism decreased (90% of economy relies on it)
- Total damage to homes, businesses & infrastructure was £50m
- Roads blocked so rescue was difficult
- 58 properties flooded
- 60 residents taken to hospital for minor injuries and shock
4
Q
Responses
A
- Bridges replaced with high arches so no debris trapped
- The river was deepened and widened so it can hold more water
- A gauge introduced to monitor water levels
- Dead trees and vegetation removed to prevent blockages
- The car park has been raised and left as an area that can flood to cope with excess water
