Boxing Day Flooding Case Study Flashcards
Where did this flooding occur?
Across North West England
When did this flooding occur?
26th December 2015
What was the nature of the flooding?
The River Calder burst its banks and caused an overflow of water from the river’s course
How strong were the winds?
80 mph
Which storm caused this flooding?
Storm Eva
How many homes were flooded in Whalley?
196
What is the population of Whalley?
4,000
Where is Whalley?
Ribble Valley, NW England
Why was Whalley’s population particularly resilient?
Low levels of economic deprivation as 23% of the population is over 65
How many homes are classed as ‘not being deprived’ in Whalley compared to Padiham?
- Whalley - 62%
- Padiham - 38%
What had happened earlier in December 2015?
A culvert had overflown and flooded the main road due to a blockage and heavy rainfall
Which organisation developed a long-term flood response?
- Environment Agency
- Lancashire County Council
- United Utilities
What social challenges did Whalley face following the flooding?
- Low uptake of flood grants
- Many residents had not returned several months later
What did community engagement lead to in Whalley?
- Engagement with 86% of the community
- 66% uptake of the flood resilience grant
What were the main components of the flood risk management scheme?
- Improved flood walls and embankments
- Improved drainage system
- Flow diversions to Wiswell Brook
- A new culvert trash screen
- Complementary flood management in the surrounding hills
What is the estimated cost of the flood risk management scheme?
£8.1 million
- £3.2 million public investment
- £4.9 million private investment
Has the flood risk management scheme been successful?
No, the project was still awaiting private investment in 2021
How many homes will the flood risk management scheme protect?
150
What impacts has the flood risk management scheme had?
- Improved safety from flood risk
- Increased community resilience
Why will flood events become more damaging and frequent?
Climate change
