Title: The floods in Boscastle and North Cornwall 16 August 2004
Author: Environment Agency South West Region
Document Type: Monograph
Abstract:
Some of the worst floods ever seen in Britain devastated Boscastle and surrounding areas of North Cornwall on 16 August 2004. Rivers overflowed after five hours of torrential rain. Walls of water swept rapidly down the steep valleys into Boscastle and Crackington Haven, carrying away trees, cars and even buildings. Swift action by local people and emergency sen/ices meant that no lives were lost. Seven helicopters rescued about 100 people from rooftops, cars and trees. The flash floods affected some 100 homes and businesses, destroyed four properties in Boscastle and two at Crackington Haven, swept away about 115 vehicles and badly damaged roads, bridges, sewers and other infrastructure. People in Boscastle and surrounding areas have worked hard at rebuilding their lives since the disaster. The regeneration has also involved the local authorities, the Environment Agency and other organisations. This booklet has been produced by the Environment Agency to explain what happened, the work we have done since and the possible options that may reduce the risk of future flooding.
Publisher: Environment Agency
Publication Date: 2004
Publication Place: Exeter
Subject Keywords: Flooding; History; Flood forecasting; Flood control; Rivers; Coasts; Harbours; Flood risk management
Geographic Keywords: Boscastle; Valency (Cornwall); North Cornwall, Seaton, Looe and Fowey catchment
Extent: 29
Permalink: http://www.environmentdata.org/archive/ealit:1101
Total file downloads: 60
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