Boscastle

Causes Heavy localised rainfall – 89 mm of rainfall in a period of an hour. The ground was saturated by previous rainfall. The village of Boscastle was at the bottom of a valley so water was funnelled into the village via surface run-off. A confluence of 3 rivers ran through the village so when it flooded, the village was effected.

Short-term responses Helicopters from the RAF and Navy were called in to help people evacuate. Buildings searched for remaining people. Collapsed trees removed from places. Roads cleared of debris Sandbags put in place

Short-term effects Cars and homes belonging to over 1,000 people were swept away. Roads were blocked. People trapped and unable to evacuate. Sewage systems destroyed, leaving Boscastle inaccessible for a few days due to health and safety reasons. Evacuation centres were set up for the people without homes.

Long-term responses £4.5 million was spent on flooding defences. Defences include: Drainage systems Sewerage systems Land re-grading The car park was raised in height, this prevents the rivers banks from bursting as easily. The river has been made deeper and wider to take in more water.

Long-term effects Income from tourism was lost, this effected the local economy. Lots of insurance claims which effected the insurance companies. Shops and business’s were destroyed. Many roads and car parks were washed away or damaged.