Causes + Impacts of River Floods

Question 1

What are the causes of flooding?

Answer 1

• heavy rainfall (e.g. in UK caused by Atlantic depressions) in short period: so inc. overland flow into rivers
• prolonged rainfall: soils saturated + infiltration replaced by overland flow
• impermeable surfaces (e.g. impermeable rock): structurally compromised soil (e.g. v. dry/frozen soil) + urbanisation
• deforestation: inc. overland flow
• melting snow or glaciers: contributes to channel flow

Question 2

What are the environmental impacts of river flooding?

Answer 2

• water + sediment spills onto floodplain: may waterlog plants + danger wildlife
• floods can transport materials (e.g. building materials, waste, chemicals) + deposit them in clean water supplies: causing more envi. damage. esp. to aquatic life

Question 3

What are the social impacts of flooding?

Answer 3

• inc. in homelessness, emotional trauma, poverty, disease, + injury or death
• powerful floods can damage buildings + may destroy infrastructure, ppl’s homes + businesses

Question 4

What is the eco. impact of flooding?

Answer 4

• economy damaged as businesses are forced to close from flood damage
• money spent on flood defences, insurance pay out + clean up