somerset levels

• what are the somerset levels?

  area of low lying coastal plain and wetlands in the south west of the uk
• When was the last severe flooding in the somerset levels

  winter of 2013 - 2014
• What are the 3 causes of the somerset level floods?

  high rainfall due to depressions from Atlantic

  high tides causing higher river levels

  lack of dredging resulting in reduced river capacity
• How much rain fell in January- february?

  350mm (100mm above average)
• How many homes were flooded?

  600 +
• How many farms were evacuated?

  16
• What was the estimated cost of damage?

  £10 million +
• How was agricultural land affected?

  over 14000 ha underwater for 3-4 weeks
• How were transport links affected?

  roads flooded and Bristol -> taughton line closed at Bridgewater
• How did the floods affect the environment?

  floodwater transported sewage affecting levels ecosystem
• How was stagnant water dealt with after the flood?

  water had to be regenerated before being put back into rivers
• How did warnings limit the effects?

  enabled people to evacuate before
• What was used to temporarily manage the floods?

  barriers and sandbags to limit water reaching peoples homes
• What is the 20 year plan to help reduce floods in somerset?

  somerset levels and moors flood action plan
• How are they preparing for higher sea levels?

  building a tidal barrier at Bridgewater
• What will the bridgewater barrier do?

  protect 11000 homes and 1500 businesses
• What body ensures the maintenance and improvement of the rivers?


  Somerset rivers authority
• What does the somerset rivers authority do?

  provides info and support to communities at risk of floods