Winter 2013-14
Event Date
350mm
Rainfall (Jan-Feb)
12+ weeks
Flooding Duration
£118M
Economic Cost
Location & Context
Why the Somerset Levels are vulnerable to flooding
Geographic Facts
- LocationSomerset Levels & Moors, South West England
- Size650 km² of wetland
- Altitude0-8m above sea level (extremely low-lying)
- Population~28,000 people on the Levels
Why Vulnerable?
- Low-lying: 0-8m above sea level
- Slow rivers: Gentle gradient can't discharge quickly
- Peat soil: Land sinking (subsidence)
- Tidal influence: Bristol Channel affects drainage
Causes of the Floods
Physical (natural) and human causes - click to expand
Effects of the Floods
Social, economic, and environmental impacts
Responses to the Floods
Immediate emergency actions and long-term management strategies
Key Statistics to Memorize
Essential facts for exam answers
Rainfall
350mm in Jan-Feb
100mm above average
Homes Flooded
600+ properties
8-12 weeks underwater
Farmland
17,000 acres
12+ weeks flooded
Economic Cost
£118M
Central estimate
Water Pumped
65 million m³
65 pumps deployed
Dredging
8km, £6M
235,000 m³ silt removed
Quick Quiz
Test your knowledge of the Somerset Levels case study
1. How much rainfall fell in January-February 2014?
2. How long had dredging been stopped before the floods?
3. How many homes were flooded?
4. What was the total economic cost (central estimate)?
5. How much water was pumped out?
6. What organization was created in 2015 to manage flood risk?