Extreme weather UK case study

What date did the Boscastle flood occur ?

August 16th 2004

Where is boscastle ?

Northeast coast of cornwall 

what was first physical cause of the boscastle flood ?

75mm of rain fell in two hours due to a low pressure system on Bodmin moore

What was the second physical cause of the flood ?

The grounds was already saturated due to two weeks of above average rainfall 

What was the final physical cause of the flood ?

The steep sided valley close to the confluence of the jordan , the Valency and the Paradise

What was the human cause of the flood ?

Low arch bridge causing vehicles and trees carried by flood water to become stuck and cause a dam which later caused a 10 foot wave

What was the Social consequence of the flood ?

Flash flood causing no time to evacuate , no fatalities but people suffered mental health issues due to stress 

What is the Economic consequence of the flood

58 properties and 4 businesses destroyed , tourist numbers dropped hugely and 90% local economy relies on tourism

What was the emergency services response ?

Quickly responded to rescue people ,100 people airlifted to safety by 7 helicopters

What was the other short term response ?

Local and tourists had to take emergency accommodation at local hotels and the village hall

What the long term response ?

Homes and businesses were rebuilt , the bridge was rebuilt higher and new flood defence scheme was put in place