Somerset Levels Flood

• Causes:

  • Wettest January on record
  • High tides and storm surges prevent drainage
  • Rivers hadn't been dredged in 20 years
• Impacts:

  • 600 homes flooded
  • £10 million damage
  • Sewage contaminated floodwaters
• Short-term responses:

  • Rescue boats to help people travel
  • Royal marines - sandbags and clean water
• Long-term responses:

  • 8km of rivers dredged
  • £20 million flood action plan (Environment Agency and Somerset County council