Boscastle Case Study

Question 1

Name the human causes of why the Boscastle flood happened.

Answer 1

DEFORESTATION-trees cut for farming. Less interception
URBANISATION-increased more impermeable surfaces, more run off, less infiltration.
BRIDGES TOO SMALL- became blocked with debris. This blocked river flow.

Question 2

Name the physical causes of Boscastle flood.

Answer 2

PRECIPITATION- lots of rain fell (20cm)
SATURATED GROUND- higher rainfall caused this
IMPERMEABLE ROCK- rock type impermeable, (water couldn’t infiltrate)
HIGH TIDE WATER- nowhere to go

Question 3

what are the positive effects of the flooding?

Answer 3

renewal of wetlands

Question 4

what are the negative effects of flooding?

Answer 4

FINANCIAL COST- rescue operation, belongings etc
LOSS OF BELONGINGS- 50 cars lost
DAMAGE- homes, businesses, land, environmental damage to wildlife etc (long term)
LOSS OF TOURISM- economy will be lost
POLLUTION- debris pollutes coastal regions
STRESS, ANXIETY, PTSD etc- (long term)