The Morpeth Floods

Question 1

When did the floods take place between? - Morpeth Floods

Answer 1

5-6th September 2008

Question 2

When were the old Morpeth defences built, which were overtopped by the 2008 floods? - Morpeth Floods

Answer 2

1960s

Question 3

The 2008 floods were an estimated in 1 in _______ years event? - Morpeth Floods

Answer 3

115

Question 4

What dates did the Morpeth flood occur on?

Answer 4

6th September 2008

Question 5

Where is Morpeth located?

Answer 5

Northumberland

Question 6

Which river was the cause of the Morpeth flood?

Answer 6

River Wansbeck

Question 7

What physical causes were there?

Answer 7

-Prolonged rainfall
   (150ml in 2 days)
-The Valley is narrow and steep 
-Soil was already saturated from summer 
   (Antecedent)
-Wansbeck has a lag time of just 8 hours

Question 8

What was a human cause of the Morpeth flood?

Answer 8

Increased urbanisation meant that almost any rainfall would drain into the river

Question 9

What hard management strategies are now in place?

Answer 9

• Flood walls

- Dam and Reservoir

Question 10

What are some soft management strategies now in place?

Answer 10

• Poles were placed (at time) into water to catch debris

- Cleared the culverts, improved drainage system