The floods in the summer of 2007 were the most severe in decades. Although it may not be accurate to attribute these floods entirely to climate change, we are told that extreme weather events are more likely to happen in the future. The design process will need to allow for flood provisions in areas where flooding is likely and these may include locations where there is no previous history of flooding.
Facilities will need a drainage system that can cope with high levels of rainfall and improved attenuation of runoff. Traditional flood event periods may need to be reconsidered and higher capacity mitigation installed. The incorporation of sustainable urban drainage systems (SUDS) may present a solution. Potential measures may include the incorporation of green roofs, soakaways and permeable pavements.
'Climate change is causing sea levels to rise and we can expect more winter storms as well as more frequent and severe tidal flooding. Intense rainfall will also increase the risk of flash flooding from our rivers and overflowing drainage systems.' Building a better environment: |
'Flood risk management includes the use of flood defences, where appropriate, but also recognises that more 'managed flooding' is essential to meeting goals for biodiversity and to sustain good ecological status in river and coastal systems. In future, society will come to appreciate and value the positive benefits of the river and coastal 'flood pulses', while simultaneously developing improved coping strategies that will make communities resilient to the negative impacts of flooding.' Flood Risk Management Research |