Cumbria - UK - 2015

how many mm of rain fell in 24 hours

341 mm

how many homes were affected

4,000

causes for the flooding (3)

extreme rainfall

warm conditions in the North Atlantic Ocean

Cumbria had already recieved prolonged heavy rainfall before the arrival of Storm Desmond - the soil was therefore already very wet and the rainfall could not be soaked in and flowed down into the rivers

what were the environmental impacts (3)

over 100 bridges were damaged including 600 year old Eamont bridge

the slopes of Helvellyn collapsed, damaged the A591

widespread landslides and riverbank erosion led to the deaths of many cattle in rural areas

what were the economic impacts (3)

disruption to the rail and road network meant people could not work

hundreds of business in Allerdale and Carlisle remained closed for over a year

According to Cumbria County Council, the recovery cost £500 million and the insurance bill reached £1.3 billion

what were the social impacts (3)

more than 700 families were unable to return to their homes for around two years

many people experienced great stress and reduced mental well-being due to their life changing losses.

some communities were strengthened by the shared experience of struggle and recovery - this is called community cohesion