Flooding Case Study: Consequences of Boscastle
Geography: KS3, topic 8.2.5
Consequences of the Boscastle Flash Flood in 2004
There were immediate and long-term consequences of the Boscastle flash flood that happened on 16th August, 2004. These consequences included:
Decreased tourism
- The flood happened during the peak season for tourism.
- People think that the flood cost the town £50 million in damage and lost income.
Flood damage
- The flood damaged and destroyed parts of Boscastle.
- 58 properties were flooded. 4 of these were destroyed.
- 150 cars were swept away.
- Roads and bridges were destroyed.
Evacuation was difficult
- Evacuation was difficult because the flooding happened so fast.
- 100 people were airlifted to safety.
Environmental pollution
- Environmental pollution happened as a result of about 150 cars being transported by the floodwater into the sea. 30 cars were swept out to sea.
- 1,850 tonnes of flood debris were recovered from the surrounding area.
Illness and injury
- Nobody was seriously injured. Most of the harm was due to stress and mental health.
Test yourself on Flooding Case Study: Consequences of Boscastle
How much is the flood thought to have cost Boscastle?
About how many cars were transported by the floodwater into the sea during the Boscastle Flash Flood?
How many serious injuries were there as a result of the Boscastle flash flood?