Case Study - boscastle

Question 1

Causes

Answer 1

Over 60 mm of rain fall ground already saturated due to the previous two weeks of above average rainfall.
The drainage basin has many steep slopes, and has areas of impermeable slate causing rapid surface run-off.
Boscastle is where three rivers meet- Valency, Jordan, and Paradise. A large quantity of water all arrived within a short space of time causing the rivers to overflow.
The flooding coincided with a high tide, making the impact worse.

Question 2

Effects

Answer 2

Homes, businesses and cars belonging to more than 1,000 people were swept away.
Income from tourism was lost. This had an impact on livelihoods and the local economy.
There were vast numbers of subsequent insurance claims.
No lives were lost, partly due to the rapid response of the emergency services.