P1: Somerset Levels FINISHED

Question 1

When was it?

Answer 1

Winter 2013-2014

Question 2

What caused the floods?

Answer 2

1. RAINFALL
   - Wettest January since records began
   - Succession of low pressure systems driven across the Atlantic
   -Ocean brought wet weather for several weeks
   - 350mm of rain fell Jan + Feb
2. TIDES
   - Storm surges and high tides swept up the river from the Bristol Channel causing flooding
3. LACK OF DREDGING
   - The rivers hadn’t been dredged in 20 years and had been blocked with sediment.

Question 3

Social effects: (5)

Answer 3

• 600 houses were flooded
• Many people had power supplies cut off
• Many villages were inaccessible, accept by boat.
• Schools were closed.
• Residents were evacuated

Question 4

Economic effects: (5)

Answer 4

• Cost estimated to be over £10 million
• Bristol to Taunton railway line closed.
• Local roads cut off
• businesses were forced to close
• Around 150km^2 of farmland remained floodedfor over two months, ruining crops.

Question 5

Environmental effects: (2)

Answer 5

• flood waters contaminated with sewage and oil
• huge amounts of debris had to be cleared

Question 6

Where are the Somerset Levels?

Answer 6

• In the County of Somerset
• South West England
• 4 rivers surround it, including the river Parrot

Question 7

Immediate responses: (2)

Answer 7

• Villagers cut off used boats to go shopping, go to work and school
• Local community groups and volunteers gave support eg. food, clothing, shelter.

Question 7

Long term responses: (4)

Answer 7

• Road levels raised in places to maintain communication links and enable businesses to continue during future foods.
• In March 2014, 8km of rivers were dredged.
• Vulnerable communities have flood barriers eg. Bridgewater tidal barrier
• £20 million Flood Action plan to reduce future risks.