Title: Groundwater flooding in the Thames region : winter 2000/01
Author: Environment Agency Thames Region
Document Type: Monograph
Abstract:
The rainfall of winter 2000/01 and subsequent recharge into the Thames Regions aquifers exceeded all previously recorded quantities for a similar period in most areas. As a result, groundwater levels, particularly in the Chalk aquifer, rose to the highest recorded levels and by a considerable margin at many sites. Extensive groundwater flooding occurred, mainly in the upper, normally dry valleys on the dip slope of the Chalk escarpment. The return periods of the rainfall and recharge events were analysed. The groundwater level response was subject to so many variables that it could only be described as extremely unusual. This event acted as a natural experiment which accentuated aquifer response to a previously unobserved condition. The profile of groundwater level response on the Chalk aquifer provided an opportunity to analyse the subtle differences between in each hydrogeological province on the aquifer This will improve the conceptual models needed for the Catchment Abstraction Management Strategies (CAMS) and groundwater modelling programme. Because of the long response times in some areas, there is a risk of groundwater flooding in the winter of 2001/02 if there is average recharge. Various methods were used to estimate the areas which may be vulnerable in the coming Winter.
Publisher: Environment Agency
Publication Date: 2001
Publication Place: Reading
Subject Keywords: Flooding; Aquifers; Groundwater; Hydrogeology; Rainfall; Forecasting
Geographic Keywords: Kennet and Pang catchment; Mimram; Upper Lee catchment; Cotswolds; North Downs
Extent: n.p. [114]
Permalink: http://www.environmentdata.org/archive/ealit:894
Total file downloads: 357
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