HIC Storm Desmond (HAZARDS) Flashcards
1
Q
When and where
A
- December 2015/16
- Cumbria, England
2
Q
about the storm
A
- Desmond Brough warm air fro Caribbean to british isles
- as a result, rainfall from Desmond was unusually heavy
- heavy rain + strong winds were caused by an area of low pressure which arrived from the Atlantic
- Existing defence failed as rain was too much
3
Q
Social impacts
A
- 50,000 people without power
- 1000 people evacuated from Hawick town
- 2 people died
- 5000 households affected
4
Q
Economic impacts
A
- 1000 sheep and 1500 cattle died so farmers lost money
- economic losses due to decline in tourism
- Cost approx £2bn
5
Q
Environmental impacts
A
- Landslides
- vegetation destroyed
- large amounts of debris needed to be cleared
- wildlife suffered from highly contaminated flood water (contained sewage and chemicals)
6
Q
Immediate responses
A
- 100+ flood warnings
- 1000 people evacuated
- Red Cross set up evacuation centres
- 200 military personnel and helicopters helped evacuate
7
Q
Long term responses
A
- £50m repair scheme announced by government
- roads rebuilt
- affected residents given council tax to help with repair costs
