Storm Desmond

• What caused the flooding in December 2015?

  Prolonged and heavy rainfall
• What weather event caused widespread flooding across Cumbria?

  Storm Desmond
• On which dates did Storm Desmond occur?

  5th and 6th December 2015
• How much rainfall fell across the Cumbrian hills in 24 hours during Storm Desmond?

  More than 300 mm
• What was significant about the rainfall during Storm Desmond?

  It was the highest ever recorded in the UK
• Why did flooding occur in Cumbria during Storm Desmond?

  Combination of saturated soils and heavy rainfall
• How did urban development affect flooding in Carlisle, Keswick, and Appleby?

  It reduced the flood plain's ability to absorb water
• What effect did the clearing of natural woodland have on flooding?

  It increased surface runoff during rainfall
• How many people died due to the flooding in Kendal?

  1 person
• What happened to thousands of homes and businesses during the flood?

  They were flooded
• What was the impact on schools during the flooding?

  More than 30 schools closed
• Which major railway line was damaged during the flooding?

  West Coast Main Line
• How long was the road between Grasmere and Keswick closed?

  5 months
• How many bridges were swept away during the flood?

  3 bridges
• What happened to electrical sub-stations during the flooding?

  They were flooded, causing power outages
• What type of pollution occurred in rivers due to the flooding?

  Pollution with rubbish and sewage
• How many sheep and cattle were washed downstream during the flood?

  1000 sheep and cattle
• What natural disaster was triggered by the flooding?

  Mudslides and landslides
• What was deposited on farmland as the water receded?

  Lots of silt and sediment
• What were the local-scale management responses to the flood?

  • Guest houses and pubs provided shelter and food
  • British Red Cross set up rest centres
  • Carlisle United football club helped with cleanup
  • Local farmers cleared debris with tractors
  • Community group formed in Glenridding for recovery
• What were the national-scale management responses to the flood?

  • Flood warnings issued by the Met Office
  • Emergency meeting called by the Prime Minister
  • Military and rescue workers deployed
  • Environment Agency provided resources
  • Temporary power restored using generators
  • £40,000 from Princes' Countryside Fund
  • £400,000 public donations for relief
  • £50 million 'Repair and Renew' scheme
  • 'Cumbria Action Plan' published for future protection
• Why is it important to understand both natural and human processes in river flooding?

  They both contribute to flooding events
• What is the main focus of the question provided at the end of the study material?

  Management of a named flood event
• What is the significance of the 'Cumbria Action Plan'?

  It contains strategies for future flood protection
• How did community efforts contribute to flood management?

  They provided immediate support and recovery
• What is the role of the Environment Agency in flood management?

  To coordinate resources and strategies for flooding
• What was the total amount donated by the public for flood relief?

  £400,000
• What was the purpose of the 'Repair and Renew' scheme?

  To protect homes against future flood damage
• How did the flooding in December 2015 illustrate the need for better flood management?

  It showed the impact of inadequate preparation