Somerset Levels Floods 2014

350mm

Jan rainfall

600

Houses flooded

Max height above sea level

1910

Last comparable event

Key facts — from Seaford 2025–27 case study notes

Somerset Levels: low-lying coastal plain and wetland, maximum height only 8m above sea level
Drained by Rivers Axe, Sheppey, Brue (north) and Cary, Yeo, Tone and Parrett (south into Bristol Channel)
Physical causes: Prolonged Atlantic storms brought heaviest rainfall since 1910 · 350mm in January · high winds · high tides in Bristol Channel
Human causes: Limited dredging had reduced river capacity · farming practices increased runoff and sediment buildup

Social: 600 houses flooded · 16 families evacuated · transport and power disrupted · Taunton–Bridgwater rail line closed
Economic: Agriculture severely damaged — farms and livestock affected · tourism reduced · cost of flood damage and recovery
Environmental: Waterlogged farmland · damage to wildlife habitats · soil erosion

Immediate: Military deployed with high-clearance vehicles · temporary flood barriers · emergency accommodation · pumping began
Long-term: Dredging of Rivers Tone and Parrett — removed sediment to increase channel capacity · flood storage areas created · improved communication and warnings
Controversy: Debate between farmers (who wanted immediate dredging) and environmentalists (who argued dredging damages habitats) — delayed response

Exam questions — 3 questions · 11 marks

1 markPhysical cause

What was the main physical cause of the Somerset Levels flooding in 2014?

A An earthquake triggered a surge of water

B Prolonged Atlantic storms bringing the heaviest rainfall since 1910, combined with high tides

C A tropical cyclone making landfall on the UK coast

D Sea level rise caused by climate change flooding coastal areas

3 marksHuman and physical causes

Explain the human and physical causes of the Somerset Levels flooding in 2014. (3 marks)

Hint: Cover BOTH physical AND human causes. State the specific amounts (350mm, heaviest since 1910).

+30 XP

4 marksEvaluate responses

Evaluate the short-term and long-term responses to the Somerset Levels floods. (4 marks)

Hint: Cover both short-term and long-term responses. Include the controversy about dredging. Conclude with a judgement.

+40 XP