Why Are We Building New Homes on Flood Plains?

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Check your long-term flood risk:
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Flood Re – A Flood Re-insurance Scheme
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Build Back Better: The Plan For Growth
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Storm Ciarán tracker: When and where 90mph winds will hit this week
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Flooding in the UK: An Ongoing Concern

The United Kingdom, with its rich tapestry of rivers, lakes, and coastlines, has frequently been at the mercy of flooding events.

These inundations not only reshape landscapes but also affect communities, livelihoods, and infrastructure.

With climate change amplifying the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, the UK has experienced a notable uptick in severe flooding incidents over recent decades.

Areas such as the Somerset Levels, Cumbria, and Yorkshire have repeatedly felt the brunt of excessive rainfall and rising river levels, leading to widespread property damage, displacement of residents, and considerable economic losses.

Several factors contribute to the UK’s vulnerability. Firstly, its global position means it is often on the receiving end of Atlantic weather systems, which can bring prolonged and heavy rainfall.

Urbanisation has also played a role; as cities expand, they create vast areas of impermeable surfaces, reducing the ground’s ability to absorb rainwater and leading to rapid runoff.

Some parts of the UK, like the east of England, are subsiding, making them more susceptible to sea-level rise.

While flood defences and early warning systems have been implemented in many areas, the increasing unpredictability and severity of weather events pose significant challenges.

Adapting to this new reality requires a comprehensive approach involving urban planning, infrastructural development, and community engagement.

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Areas most prone to flooding in the UK

Yorkshire: Especially around the River Ouse and River Hull.

Somerset Levels: This area has been historically prone to severe flooding, especially during extended periods of heavy rainfall.

Cumbria: Particularly in areas around the River Eden.

Lincolnshire: Especially the coastline and areas around The Wash.

Lancashire: Areas along the River Ribble and its tributaries have experienced flooding.

Cornwall: Being a coastal county, it’s vulnerable to river and sea flooding.

Norfolk Broads: This low-lying area is especially prone to tidal and river flooding.

Kent: Parts of Kent, especially those along the River Medway, have historically been vulnerable.

Shropshire: The River Severn and its tributaries have often caused flooding.

Greater London: While the Thames Barrier offers significant protection, areas of London remain susceptible, particularly to surface water flooding.