cumbria floods 2021 case study

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Infrastructure lessons learned after Storm Desmond devastated Cumbria

18 Nov, 2021 By Rob Hakimian

The Department for Transport (DfT) has released a new report about emergency preparedness, response and recovery, using Cumbria’s recovery from 2015’s devastating Storm Desmond as a key case study for future events.

What’s most impressive and valuable for future such events is the way that Cumbria’s local authorities worked quickly and collaboratively to get its infrastructure working again, according to the report. The Cumbria Infrastructure Recovery Project has received multiple awards for its work, and can be used as a benchmark for future incidents.

Desmond left Cumbria with 1,234 individual storm damage repairs, including 72 bridges that had significant damage and a crucial 5km stretch of the A591 that was left untraversable.

The recovery was guided by a Strategic Recovery Coordination Group (SRCG), which had four immediate considerations:

• The need to prevent people’s exposure to continuing risks of injury
• The need to prevent further degradation of – and/or enchaining risks accumulating from – damaged assets
• The need to allow planning space in which to develop a combined, social, environmental and economic risks-based approach to ongoing contingency management, and the prioritisation and delivery of repair and reconstruction
• The understanding that even with the most intensive civil engineering and project management expertise applied, replacement infrastructure works can take two to three years to complete: as evidenced by the experiences of Cumbria and Calderdale

Cumbria County Council put into place a Rapid Impact Assessment process, calling in Mott MacDonald and Gaist Solutions, whose uses of technology such as drones and sonar allowed the picture to become clearer. This could then be presented to the DfT, and with the expert analysis an emergency grant of £120M was acquired to fund the repairs.

This was a stark change from previous incidents, where each individual repair had to be costed individually and funding sought out on a case-by-case basis, making it a much slower and more costly process. The Cumbrian approach is now considered good practice by DfT and is used as a case study for developing consistent Rapid Impact Assistance guidance.

To oversee the recovery of infrastructure, a non-partisan infrastructure group of elected members was formed, featuring many experienced and well-connected people. This infrastructure sub-group oversaw the developments, ensuring decisions regarding repairs expedited and had the authority to carry out key repair projects.

A decision was made to use local contractors wherever possible, which provided local expertise, security for local businesses and gave the community recognisable people they could talk to about the developments and progress.

Cumbria Highways had plenty of work to do clearing up and repairing the county’s roads, but one that was particularly critical was the A591, which was completely ruined for a 5km stretch by floods and landslips. This blockage forced local traffic to take a 64km diversion (112km for HGVs). Seeing the importance of getting this road opened again, National Highways (then Highways England) was called in.

Usually, the A591 would not be within National Highways’ remit, as it’s not a trunk road, but the Rapid Impact Assessment of the situation had allowed for clarity between Cumbria County Council, Mott MacDonald and National Highways and they agreed on and understood the necessity. Without this intervention, the knock-on effects would have been extended. The A591 was re-opened in February 2016, two months after the storm and ahead of schedule.

With the A591 repairs being carried out by National Highways, Cumbria Highways was able to focus on other areas, maintaining a high-profile information campaign to keep the public informed about the status of the recovery operation. Keeping the public informed of the status of repairs was seen as a valuable part of the recovery process.

Surprisingly, the success of this collaboration has not yet prompted the government to define clear collaborative-working arrangements for recovery operations between different organisations and authorities within the sector.

Read the full report, ‘Preparedness, response and recovery: identifying lessons learned by the UK highway sector from extreme-weather emergencies (2015 to 2020)’ here .

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Tagged with: Department for Transport gaist solutions Mott MacDonald National Highways storm desmond

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Responding to the Cumbria floods

Cumbria has seen floods in 2005 and 2009 but nothing like it in 2015. Lives were lost, thousands of homes wrecked, and businesses destroyed.

In all, more than 5,500 homes and 1,000 businesses were flooded; thousands of people were left homeless. For some, it was the third or fourth time they had seen their homes devastated by flood water in a decade.

There was always one thing stronger than the flood waters – the spirit of Cumbria which again showed our county at its most resilient and compassionate best in a time of extreme need.

It was a spirit that drove people together to do anything they could to help those flooded out of their homes. Volunteers appeared from every direction to donate food, clothes and other essentials, and others gave their time to help start the clean-up operation.

Their example and the thousands of pictures and videos circulating on social media inspired people further afield to offer their help. Supermarkets provided food, faith groups visited Cumbria with donations, and ordinary people just filled up their cars with shopping and drove halfway up the country to give it to Cumbrians in need.

We launched the Cumbria Flood Recovery Appeal before the rains of Storm Desmond had even stopped: this tells its own story about the extraordinary outpouring of generosity which did so much to help the county recover from the worst flood in living memory.

Within days, the appeal had surged past its original target of £1m and went on to distribute almost £10m (thanks to match funding from the Government) with more than £7.2m given to flooded families and a further £2.6m to community groups.

The appeal helped people with practical, financial and emotional support, and it also helped residents and communities to develop resilience schemes which will assist future flood defence and recovery. Many people are still suffering from stress and anxiety about the prospect of flooding in the future.

The appeal was audited to evaluate its impact and statistics were produced to show how it had supported residents, community groups and businesses in their hour of need.

One comment made to the researchers captures the importance of the appeal: “Without the grant, I would have been homeless and housed in temporary accommodation unsuitable for my disability for months. Cumbria Community Foundation made me feel human.”

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Flooding in Cumbria: Latest news on roads, rivers and public transport

As the Met Office issues an amber weather warning for Cumbria, and the Environment Agency says flooding is coming our way, the county is battening down the hatches. Stay with us for the latest updates and let us know what’s happening in your neighbourhood.

Email [email protected] with news, photos and video – and please be safe.

For Friday’s updates, please click here

Thursday october 28.

Glenridding Beck level at Glenridding Village is rising but is still within the normal range:

River Cocker level at Scalehill Upper Lorton Valley now falling.

Derwentwater level at Lodore – now stabilising.

River Derwent level at Portinscale now stabilising.

Bassenthwaite Lake level at Castle Howe is rising.

River Derwent level at Ouse Bridge is rising.

River Glenderamackin level at Threlkeld is falling.

River Greta level at Greta Bridge is falling.

River Greta level at Keswick Campsite is stabilising.

Thirlmere Reservoir level at Thirlmere Reservoir (Spillway level = 16.55m) is rising.

St Johns Beck level at Thirlmere is now stabilising.

Ullswater level at Glenridding Steamer Pier is rising.

River Greta level at Riddings Wood is now falling.

Spare a thought for the livestock in the hills…..

More river readings:

The River Ellen level at Bull Gill now appears to be stabilising.

The River Derwent at Workington snapped by Tony Jackson a couple of hours ago.

Earlier today, a keen photographer snapped Whitehaven Rugby League club’s ground, the LEL Arena (formerly the Recreation Ground) and neighbouring Whitehaven Miners football club pitch, which are both completely underwater.

A flood warning has been issued for Ullswater and River Eamont at Pooley Bridge, Ullswater Steamer Pier to B5320 Bridge. It says: “River and lake levels have risen at the Pooley Bridge river gauge as a result of heavy rainfall. Consequently, flooding is possible. “Flooding is expected to affect properties on the B5320 between Dunmallard Hill and the River Eamont, including the Steamer Pier. Levels are expected to peak this evening and levels to remain high into tomorrow. The Environment Agency is closely monitoring the situation and its incident response staff are checking defences. Avoid using low-lying roads and footpaths near rivers.”

River Derwent levels latest:

The Bassenthwaite Lake level at Castle Howe is still rising.

The River Derwent level at Ouse Bridge appears to be still rising.

The River Derwent level at Kingfisher, Cockermouth appears to have peaked, with the Environment Agency saying they now expect it to start falling.

The River Derwent level at Seaton Mill, Barepot, Workington is now predicted to start falling by the Environment Agency.

River Cocker levels latest:

The River Cocker level at Scalehill Upper Lorton Valley appears to have peaked and is now falling.

The River Cocker level at Southwaite Bridge also appears to have peaked and is now falling.

The River Cocker level at South Street Footbridge also appears to have peaked and is now falling.

Update from the Environment Minister:

Intensive rain has sadly caused flooding in Cumbria today with around 40 properties flooded. My thoughts are with all those affected and thanks to all those supporting #Cumbria #Flooding 1/2 — Rebecca Pow (@pow_rebecca) October 28, 2021

Diversions are in place after a wet road collision on the A66.

Emergency services were called at around 3.30pm today to reports that a car had collided with the rear of a lorry on the westbound side of the Appleby Bypass.

All traffic is being diverted through Appleby causing some delays. 

An ambulance attended but injuries are not believed to be severe. 

A statement from Eden Police reads: “The weather is causing a few issues, if you don’t need to travel, please stay home.”

Latest flood warning picture

Incredible footage here of Bassenthwaite and Derwentwater:

A flood warning is now in force for the River Derwent at Camerton – River levels have risen at the Seaton Mill river gauge as a result of heavy rainfall. Consequently, flooding is possible. Flooding is expected to affect residential properties and farms immediately adjacent to the River Derwent at Camerton village including Camerton Hall. River levels are expected to remain high throughout the rest of today and into tomorrow. The Environment Agency is closely monitoring the situation. Incident response staff are checking defences. Avoid using low-lying roads and footpaths near rivers.

The latest from Appleby:

Read Haunting memories of Storm Desmond: Communities reflect on a day like no other…  https://cumbriacrack.com/2021/10/28/cumbria-floods-haunting-flashbacks-to-storm-desmond/

Scene at #Keswick rugby club this afternoon pic.twitter.com/feiHPzssDg — Paul Irwin (@Paul___Irwin) October 28, 2021

Stagecoach has just tweeted that Coniston has burst its banks.

It said: “The road is too dangerous to travel on. The 1608 505 service from Hawkshead to Coniston will not operate and the 1328 Coniston – Hawkshead service will also not operate – the service will resume at Hawkshead at 1646.”

Mountain streams at full tilt. #Cumbria #coniston #lakedistrict #rain #weather #floods pic.twitter.com/lST3Q21Cw0 — Coniston Stonecraft (@ConistonStone) October 28, 2021

You’ve got to hand it to rugby players – Aspatria RUFC have just tweeted that training remains on tonight – and have advised their players to travel safe and give themselves extra journey time.

A flood warning has been issued for the River Derwent at Camerton, near Workington.

Here’s the current level of the River Greta in Keswick:

Ullswater ‘Steamers’ has announced it will remain closed until Sunday. Anyone who has prebooked tickets will be contacted directly by the company. Ullswater ‘Steamers’ has apologised for the inconvenience.

Heavy #rain continues to give #flooding across #Cumbria ⚠️ For the latest information on flood warnings across England, please check the @EnvAgency  website Here’s a look at the latest #rainfall totals 👇 Stay #WeatherAware pic.twitter.com/Z9nTNMtWCB — Met Office (@metoffice) October 28, 2021

A lot of rain in Coniston over the last 24 hours and more still to come. pic.twitter.com/D8PAasPClO — Robin Cooper (@R3Cooper) October 28, 2021

More photos from across the area:

Rubby Banks Road, Cockermouth

We were sent these photos by Martin Brough of Wath Brow, Hen Beck and Kiln Brow, Cleator

Picture: Martin Brough

Read the latest update from the Environment Agency on the flooding situation in Cumbria here.

Keswick Rugby Club has got a bit damp.

While Cockermouth Cricket Club’s ground is more than a bit waterlogged:

Latest river levels in Cockermouth and the surrounding areas:

• Scalehill Upper Lorton Valley- Height 2.65m (high) (highest level recorded 3.54m in 2009)
• Southwaite Bridge – Height 2.53m (high) (highest level recorded 3.12m in 2009)
• South Street Footbridge – Height 3.26m (high) (highest level recorded 4.97m in 2009)
• Castle Howe – Height 3.03m (high) (highest level recorded 5.16m in 2015)
• Ouse Bridge – Height 2.61m (high) (highest level recorded 3.89m in 2015)
• Kingfisher, Cockermouth – Height 3.16m (high) (highest level recorded 4.54m in 2015)
• Seaton Mill, Barepot, Workington – Height 2.08m (high) (highest level recorded 2.67m in 2015)
• Bull Gill – Height 1.87m (high) (highest level ever recorded 2.51m in 2015)

Latest pictures from Cockermouth:

Latest river levels in Carlisle and the surrounding areas:

• Cummersdale – Height 1.61m (high)
• Denton Holme – Height 1.71m (normal)
• Skew Bridge – Height 2.06m (normal)
• Great Corby – Height 2.39m (normal)
• Linstock – Height 3.24m (high)
• Sands Centre, Carlisle – Height 3.49m (high)
• Sheepmount – Height 3.47m (high)
• Newbiggin Bridge – Height 1.07m (normal)
• Harraby Green Business Park – Height 0.88m (normal)
• Melbourne Park, Carlisle – Height 1.26m (normal)
• Botcherby Bridge, Carlisle – Height1.16m (normal)
• Warwick Bridge – Height 0.20m (normal)

Another flood warning has now been issued by the Environment Agency for Windermere at lake level. It says:

River levels are high and forecast to rise further on Windermere due to heavy rainfall. Flooding is expected at low-lying commercial and residential properties, camping, caravan sites and leisure facilities on the shores of Windermere from 4pm. Further light rainfall is forecast this afternoon and lake levels are expected to rise steadily at the Far Sawrey gauge. We will continue to monitor levels closely. Start acting on your flood plan if you have one. 

Latest from Cockermouth:

10 flood warnings and 16 alerts now in force in Cumbria

Huge delays in Kendal…

#Kendal #Congestion *MAJOR DELAYS* Lengthy delays (in excess of 1 hr in places) on the A6 Milnthorpe Rd & A5284 Windermere Rd heading into Kendal. Traffic using these roads to divert around the M6 NB closure. #CumbriaRoads P: 13:05 hrs @BBC_Cumbria @carolinerbrtsn @CumbriaCrack pic.twitter.com/oiJrRNKdZQ — Cumbria Road Watch (@CumbriaRdWatch) October 28, 2021

Stephen Fitzpatrick took these photos of the river in Cockermouth at 12.50pm. He says it’s getting close to the existing defences, but the new ones are much higher. We were told earlier today that the flood defences saved Rubby Banks. 

Update from Northern:

⚠️Due to flooding between Carlisle and Sellafield journey times may be extended by up to 60 minutes. #NorthernUpdates pic.twitter.com/3YNwfi4kdC — Northern 🚆 (@northernassist) October 28, 2021

Video taken by Fiona Heslam at Lostrigg Beck, Bridgefoot at about 9am today.

Some useful information from Cockermouth Emergency Response Group:

More disruption on the railway:

⚠️Due to heavy rain flooding between Carlisle and Sellafield fewer trains are able to run on the line 🚆Services through these stations will be cancelled or delayed by up to 60 minutes. Disruption is expected until 15:00 28/10 👉 https://t.co/XfPsBYFl3K #NorthernUpdates pic.twitter.com/IhnOdPHHCP — Northern 🚆 (@northernassist) October 28, 2021

A stark contrast…

What a difference a day makes… #Windermere lake levels yesterday and this morning … pic.twitter.com/bmI8i6tJa7 — Kath Tanner 💙 (@kathtanner1) October 28, 2021

Warning for people in Copeland:

Several roads are now closed throughout the Copeland area, The threat of flooding remains high and we are asking residents to only travel when necessary. pic.twitter.com/Qdh8iKXPJc — Copeland Police (@CopelandPolice) October 28, 2021

More rail advice:

❗️ #UKWeather – Major disruption due to heavy rain on various routes in Scotland and the north west England. ℹ️Please see Avanti West Coast travel advice below: pic.twitter.com/1N7MyPBgw2 — National Rail (@nationalrailenq) October 28, 2021

An update on the latest situation on the railways:

⚠️ DELAYS ⚠️ Trains between #Carlisle and #Maryport may be delayed due to flooding on the tracks 🛤 🌧 Please check @nationalrailenq before travelling today 📲 @northernassist — Network Rail Lancashire & Cumbria (@NetworkRailLC) October 28, 2021

Latest updates from Stagecoach:

#WestCumbria Due to severe flooding which is affecting our route on the Greenbank Circular, Service 2, we have suspended services to Greenbank and are currently diverting after Woodhouse to Braketop and down New Road to Ginns. — Stagecoach Cumbria & North Lancashire (@StagecoachCNL) October 28, 2021

Owing to flooding, the 508 service will not operate between Windermere and Patterdale for the rest of the day. #lakesconnection — Stagecoach Cumbria & North Lancashire (@StagecoachCNL) October 28, 2021

The abandoned car at Rothay has been recovered, so services 505 & 516 can resume – but 505 will operate direct to Coniston and then to Hawkshead as the road is blocked at Brathay by-you guessed it- abandoned cars! Skelwith Fold, Wray & Outgate will not be served. #lakesconnection — Stagecoach Cumbria & North Lancashire (@StagecoachCNL) October 28, 2021

#Penrith due to flooding our 508 service from Penrith to Windermere will terminate at Patterdale for the rest of today sorry pic.twitter.com/VAppj86nhu — Stagecoach Cumbria & North Lancashire (@StagecoachCNL) October 28, 2021

Wasdale Mountain Rescue Team has issued a warning:

The River Cocker passing the Honest Lawyer restaurant in Cockermouth:

Some useful information from Millom Coastguard:

Another couple of pictures taken in Cockermouth:

A couple of videos taken recently in Southwaite by Joe Hill:

Pictures coming in of flooding in Southwaite.

Southwaite. Picture Joe Hill

Road into Low Moresby from the A595 is flooded and impassable.

Picture taken of the Lodore Falls car park in Borrowdale.

Richard Greenwood sent us this picture and video of trout jumping at Fawcett Mill Fields in Tebay. He said: “My partner Sammy and I bought this old watermill in May this year and we have not seen the waterfall so furious before.  To then see the salmon jumping is just incredible.”

A595 in Whitehaven badly flooded at Bransty Corner. Queues in both directions.

The latest from Derwentwater marina:

More videos from Cockermouth:

More footage from Cockermouth:

Pictures coming out of Cockermouth:

Cockermouth

Pictures coming out of Cockermouth

Reports of flooding on Low Road Cockermouth.

Honest Lawyer restaurant, former youth hostel and Hatter’s Croft flats in Cockermouth have been flooded, it is reported. 

Reports of flooding (passable with care) on A5086 between Cockermouth and Lamplugh.

Latest from Stagecoach:

Due to flooding and broken-down vehicles at Troutbeck, the 508 service between Windermere and Glenridding cannot operate at present. #lakesconnection — Stagecoach Cumbria & North Lancashire (@StagecoachCNL) October 28, 2021

Due to delays at the flooding at Bannerigg on A591, there are delays to services 555 & 599 of up to 30 minutes. #lakesconnection — Stagecoach Cumbria & North Lancashire (@StagecoachCNL) October 28, 2021

505 & 516 services are currently not running due to an abandoned electric vehicle blocking the road for large vehicles at Rothay. This cannot be pushed or towed so a lifting recovery truck is required. Updates will follow. #lakesconnection — Stagecoach Cumbria & North Lancashire (@StagecoachCNL) October 28, 2021

Striking images from West Cumbria:

Hell my friend lives on the riverbank at Gote Bridge. Not returned my messages 😩 this is another friends house at Cleator flooded inside again 😩 pic.twitter.com/fH2W3uFQZE — RFJ💙 (@rfj1966) October 28, 2021

Useful information if you are attempting to travel from Grasmere to Ambleside:

Do not attempt to travel from Grasmere to Ambleside (in either direction). The #A591 is heavily flooded and impassable in various locations near Rydal. pic.twitter.com/cVXI9YtnKu — TheLakesTony 🌳🌲 (@TheLakesTony) October 28, 2021

Something to bear in mind:

We can pick up fallen leaves that are stopping water flowing into road drains and along gullies. Report this online to us here: https://t.co/Igas84AdZ5 If the actual drain is blocked, this should be reported to Cumbria County Council: https://t.co/jfY5AmD2g7 pic.twitter.com/Y3T5c6aSXM — Allerdale Council (@allerdale) October 28, 2021

Reports of a collision and queues on A590 in both directions at Newby Bridge (between the roundabout and the service station). Nothing to suggest this is weather-related at this stage.

Footage of Rothay Park, Ambleside:

This is Rothay Park just now. @keswickbootco pic.twitter.com/cIhapOVxiw — Rod Hutchinson (@lakesrhino) October 28, 2021

Some pictures taken in Hawkshead:

Lot of water around #Hawkshead . More than a foot deep in places on the road between Colthouse and the B5285 into Hawkshead. #CumbriaFloods @CumbriaFloods pic.twitter.com/jPCyt45LHY — David Rippin🏔📷🧗‍♂️🚴‍♂️🇪🇺 (@dmrippin) October 28, 2021

A593 blocked at Rothay Bridge (near Ambleside) due to flooding and an abandoned vehicle. Congestion on the A593 approaching from Clappersgate.

Stagecoach has provided another update:

At the moment, buses cannot get past Rothay Bridge due to an abandoned car in the floodwater so 505 & 516 services cannot operate Once this is moved we will be able to resume these services. #lakesconnection — Stagecoach Cumbria & North Lancashire (@StagecoachCNL) October 28, 2021

Some information for anyone travelling in Windermere:

The #A592 is impassable and blocked by multiple flooded vehicles at Windermere School. @CumbriaRdWatch pic.twitter.com/uXQBpbm53y — TheLakesTony 🌳🌲 (@TheLakesTony) October 28, 2021

B5289 impassable due to flooding at Gatesgarth Farm (between Buttermere and Honister).

An update from Stagecoach in Cumbria:

#WestCumbria Due to Adverse weather and flooding in the Keswick area The 78 / 77 / 77A services are suspended at present updates to follow. — Stagecoach Cumbria & North Lancashire (@StagecoachCNL) October 28, 2021

Here is the county’s flood risk manager updating people on the latest situation:

Here’s our flood risk manager for Cumbria with the latest weather situation for today. Would you know what to do in a flood? Keep up to date with the latest & sign up to flood warnings in your area now – https://t.co/BuDed81xuI #Cumbria #Flood #FloodAware #PrepareActSurvive pic.twitter.com/RmTWLqK5vt — Env Agency NW (@EnvAgencyNW) October 28, 2021

A592 Patterdale Road impassable due to flooding between Cook’s House Corner and Sun Hill Lane.

Useful information for anyone in Cockermouth:

Allerdale Council will be dropping off some Floodsax at Cockermouth Library You can request some either through the MyAllerdale app or via the Allerdale Borough Council office 03031231702 — yvonne martin (@ymartin1972) October 28, 2021

A592 Newby Bridge to Bowness passable with care through the flooding. Cars are still getting through.

Reports from Keswick Flood Action Group that the Portinscale A66 junction is currently underwater with moving water flowing around the bridge onto the road. Please don’t drive through it, it doesn’t take much to float your car!

The 7.33am train from Oxenholme is only going to Carlisle not Edinburgh. Pauline Vaughan says: “I am on the train and we are being told it is due to ‘bad weather'”.

The River Cocker is running very high and Cockermouth Emergency Response Group have been on the ground there with pumps helping remove surface water at South Street.

The Derwent is fast and high with some overspill onto Memorial Gardens.

There is a flood warning in place for the Trout Car park and the cricket ground.

Reports of flooding on the A595 at Duddon Bridge. Sources suggest that some vehicles have become stuck in the flood.

Looks like we had a relatively quiet night across the county although weather warnings and flood alerts are still in force.

Appleby residents were told to move cars and erect flood defences on the Sands as a precaution at about 8.30pm last night. The EA has now advised that the predicted water level peak for tonight is 3.15m at 5am. At this level, the water will be onto the road on the Sands but not into properties.

The river level last night was 1.07m.

Thanks to Lindsay Goodall for sending us this clip of the road between Buttermere and Honister Pass yesterday.

If you have any news, photos or video, please email [email protected]

Here’s what the River Greta in Keswick is looking like this morning:

Wednesday October 28

This is a screenshot from the live camera monitoring the River Greta in Keswick:

Sandbags have been delivered to Cockermouth Library.

Cockermouth Emergency Response Group said: “We are closely monitoring the river levels and the predictions from the Environment Agency.

“It is a possibility that we will receive a flood warning later this evening although the rivers are now due to peak tomorrow morning.

“The estimate for the Cocker is now 3.35m at 11.30am tomorrow morning and the Derwent estimates have gone down to a peak of 2.84m at 8.30am tomorrow.

“These are both a lot lower than forecast this morning. We continue to work closely with the statutory authorities and monitor these numbers and will let you know if we are concerned. It is just going to depend on how much more rain we have and how much comes off the hills.”

Victoria Court in Cockermouth, run by Castles and Coasts housing association is being evacuated as a precaution.

Latest travel news from across the county

• Catbells route – impassable due to fallen tree after Grange.
• The B5289 – impassable due to flooding between Grange and Seatoller
• Stagecoach services – 77, 77A and 78 buses suspended for the rest of the day
• Rydal – The A591 is partially blocked and traffic is queuing due to flooding near the Glen Rothay Hotel
• Ambleside – the A593 is badly flooded at Rothay Bridge, near the Rothay Manor Hotel. Lengthy delays are being reported on all approaches
• Windermere Car Ferry – not operating due to strong winds
• West Coast Mainline – Avanti West Coast and TransPennine Express are advising customers to avoid travelling on the line
• Northern services – delays between Bootle and Carnforth due to flooding
• A591 between Ambleside and Keswick – the road is just passable due to flooding at the bottom of Dunmail Raise
• Ambleside – Flooding affecting the A5075 Borrans Road between the Rugby Club and Waterhead. Only 4x4s are getting through
• Windermere – Slow traffic on A592 between Newby Bridge and Bowness on Windermere due to patches of flooding. Motorists are advised to approach with care
• Windermere – A592 Rayrigg Road affected by flooding. Road reported as only just passable

Reports of flooding and road barely passable on the B5286 at Pull Woods (between Outgate and Clappersgate).

Flooding across the full carriageway on the A591 Ambleside Road (Troutbeck Bridge) outside White Cross Bay. Passable with care.

Very few vehicles now using the A592 Rayrigg Road (Windermere) due to the large flood outside the car garage.

UPDATE: the A593 is now passable with care at Rothay Bridge (near the Rothay Manor Hotel). A vehicle is stuck in the floodwater but vehicles can still pass.

Flooding and vehicle stuck in floodwater on A591 at Bannerigg Farm (between Windermere and Ings).

Four flood warnings and 15 flood alerts in place in Cumbria – cumbriacrack.com

If you are aware of any travel issues that we are not reporting, please let us know by emailing  [email protected]

In pictures: The day the floods returned to Cumbria

Nine flood warnings and 15 flood alerts for cumbria, have you read.

People encouraged to visit Lake District car-free this bank holiday

Penrith recycling site to be removed after fly-tipping incidents

Man banned from Workington shops for two years

Carlisle woman prosecuted for selling animals without licence

Seriously injured sheep put down after dog attack

Joss Naylor sculpture to be auctioned off for mountain rescue

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Cumbria flooding map: Full list of flood warnings and the worst affected areas of the Lake District

The environment agency has issued nine flood warnings and 11 flood alerts in the county.

Flooding is continuing to worsen in Cumbria , as more rain fell overnight.

The Environment Agency has issued nine flood warnings and 11 flood alerts in the county.

About 40 properties were flooded on Thursday, as well as roads and railways. Honister Pass was the worst-affected area, with more than 30cm of rainfall in a 24-hour period.

Here is what you need to know.

Cumbria flooding map

The flooding is affecting larges swathes of the county, with rivers including the Rothay bursting their banks.

The Environment Agency said it has protected 1,200 properties by shutting flood gates and removing blockages from grilles and watercourses.

Flood duty manager Ben Lukey warned: “Surface water and river flooding could still bring disruption to further communities.”

Flooding alerts

The Environment Agency has nine flood warnings in place, meaning flooding is expected in these areas:

• Keswick Campsite
• River Cocker at Southwaite Bridge
• River Derwent at Workington, Seaton Mill and Barepot
• River Ehen at Egremont, Bleach Green, Ennerdale Mill, Bridge End, Vale View, Wood Bank, Rugby Club
• River Greta at Keswick, Keswick Campsite, Rugby Club and Quinta
• River Leven at Newby Bridge and Backbarrow
• Rivers Cocker and Derwent at Cockermouth, Cricket Ground and Trout Hotel Car Park
• Ullswater and River Eamont at Pooley Bridge, Ullswater Steamer Pier to B5320 Bridge
• Windermere (Lake Levels)

There are also 11 flood alerts, which means flooding is possible in the following areas:

• Lower River Eden
• Lower River Lune and Conder
• Rivers Brathay, Rothay and Winster
• Rivers Cocker, Marron and Derwent
• Rivers Duddon, Crake and Mill Beck
• Rivers Ehen, Calder, Irt and Esk
• Rivers Esk and Irthing
• Rivers Greta, St Johns Beck and Bassenthwaite Lake
• Rivers Kent and Bela
• Rivers Lowther and Eamont
• Upper River Derwent, Stonethwaite Beck and Derwent Water

The Met Office has also listed yellow warnings for rain across large parts of the North West, as well as souther Scotland, Wales and the South West.

Travel news

Train operators are telling people to avoid travelling on the West Coast Main Line and Cumbria Coastal routes.

Several roads were flooded on Thursday, including the A591 between Rydal and Grasmere and the A592 Patterdale Road.

Karl Melville, senior manager at Cumbria county council’s highways team, told BBC News on Friday: “We have made some good progress, a lot of the roads that were closed are now passable with care.

“But obviously this does not take away the very clear advice of if you don’t need to travel then don’t travel.”

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• Flood in Cumbria

Dive into an in-depth exploration of the notable Flood in Cumbria. This detailed guide unpicks the causes, impacts, and long-term implications of multiple flooding events, drawing particular attention to the 2009 and 2015 occurrences. You'll unearth key facts about floods in this region, dig into the role of defence mechanisms, and study both the positive and negative aftermath. Our hope is to not only provide information about past incidents but also to equip you with understanding to better face potential future incidents.

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_____ rain fell during the November 2009 f loods 

Name 2 responses to the Cumbria 2009 floods 

What was significant about the rainfall in the town of Seathwaite in 2009?

Following the 2015 Cumbria floods, what positive impacts emerged?

What does the term 'after-effects of a flood' refer to?

What is the definition of flooding?

What were some of the significant long-term effects of the 2015 Cumbria floods?

What are the main causes of flooding in Cumbria?

What were the impacts of the 2009 floods in Cumbria?

What does the physical environment refer to in the context of Cumbria's flooding?

What are the roles of flood defences in Cumbria?

• Challenges In The Human Environment
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Understanding the Flood in Cumbria

Located in North West England, Cumbria is a predominantly rural county which is renowned for its outstanding natural beauty. With picturesque landscapes, the region is not a stranger to the extremes of nature, often suffering from severe floods . To comprehend these natural disasters , it becomes paramount to thoroughly understand the geographic and meteorological aspects behind them.

Flooding is an overflow of large amounts of water beyond its normal confines, typically over what is dry land. The resulting water damage can devastate communities, destroying homes, businesses, and leading to loss of life.

Review of the 2009 Floods in Cumbria

November 2009 saw Cumbria grappling with the worst floods in its history. The event marked the highest level of rainfall ever recorded in the UK over a 24-hour period - 314.4mm. This particular flood led to the unfortunate loss of a police officer and caused extensive property damage.

In the small town of Cockermouth, the water level in the River Derwent rose so dramatically that it swept away the Northside Bridge. The destruction of infrastructure led to significant isolation for local communities and took months to rebuild.

During the 2009 flood, Cumbria's infrastructure was left in ruins, with more than 1,300 homes affected. The utility services were stretched beyond their limits, with road closures and power outages being reported all across the county.

Key Causes of Flooding in Cumbria

It's important to grasp the main factors contributing to floods in Cumbria. Predominantly, these include heavy rainfall, topography, soil conditions, and human intervention.

• Heavy rainfall: The geography of Cumbria means that it often falls victim to severe Atlantic weather systems.
• Topography: The steep slopes and valleys of the Lake District mean water flows quickly into river systems.
• Soil conditions: The often saturated ground cannot absorb much additional water.
• Human intervention: Urbanisation can lead to greater surface run-off and therefore boost flood risk.

Top Facts about Flooding in Cumbria

In order to recap and summarise, here are some riveting facts about flooding in Cumbria:

Impact of Flooding on the Physical Environment in Cumbria

When discussing the impact of flooding in Cumbria, it’s hard to overlook its drastic effects on the county’s physical environment. With an extensive network of rivers, picturesque valleys, and abundant wildlife, the physical environment in Cumbria is intensely susceptible to the aftermath of flooding.

The physical environment refers to the natural landscape, including physical and geographical features such as rivers, mountains, vegetation, wildlife and climate.

The Role of Flood Defences in Cumbria

Given the regularity and magnitude of floods in Cumbria, effective flood defences play a crucial role in managing and mitigating their impact. These structures and systems are designed to control the flow and size of rising water, reducing its damaging effects.

A prominent flood defence system in Cumbria is the Keswick flood alleviation scheme. This structure, which includes a combination of raised embankments and wall defences, was developed to protect the town from the River Greta's swelling waters.

Flood defences have a multifaceted role:

• They reduce the vulnerability of settlements and infrastructure to floods.
• They decrease the likelihood of human casualties.
• They curtail the financial loss caused by property and agricultural damage.

Although highly beneficial, flood defences aren't perfect solutions. They can sometimes simply displace the problem downstream. In addition, highly engineered structures can have significant environmental impacts, altering habitats and disrupting wildlife.

Analysing the Impact of Flooding in Cumbria on Environment

Examining the effect of flooding on the environment in Cumbria helps understand not just the immediate, but also the long-term changes it brings about. These can range from landscape alteration and soil erosion to adverse effects on wildlife habitats.

An outline of environmental impact:

• Landscape alteration: Flooding can cause dramatic changes in the local landscape due to the force of water and movement of debris.
• Soil erosion: Strong floods can strip fertile topsoil layer, leading to poor soil quality and affecting local agriculture.
• Wildlife disruption: The sudden surge of water can destroy habitats, leading to the displacement or death of local wildlife species.

In-depth Study of the Cumbria Floods 2015

December 2015 bore witness to another catastrophic flood event in Cumbria. Named 'Storm Desmond', this event was characterised by relentless rainfall that led to severe flooding.

Storm Desmond was a vigorous extratropical cyclone and the fourth named storm of the 2015–16 UK and Ireland windstorm season. It brought record amounts of rainfall primarily to regions of northern England.

Storm Desmond had stern repercussions, including power cuts that affected tens of thousands of homes, widespread disruption to transport, and extensive damage to infrastructure. Furthermore, rare historic artefacts stored in the basement of Carlisle's Castle Museum were severely damaged by the floodwaters.

After Effects and Transformation Post Cumbria Floods

The aftermath of the Cumbria floods extends beyond immediate property damage and displacement of residents. Lasting changes in infrastructure, the local environment, and community resilience define the legacy of these natural disasters . Understanding the scale and nature of these transformations provides crucial insights into adapting and preparing for future flooding events.

Understanding the Cumbria Floods 2015 and its After-Effects

December 2015's Storm Desmond will be remembered as one of the most destructive flood events in Cumbria's history. However, to fully comprehend its long-lasting effects, it's important to delve deep into the transformations brought forth from the floodwaters.

After-effects of a flood refer to the consequences, both immediate and long-term, that are experienced by natural and human systems once floodwaters have receded. This can encompass changes to the physical environment, economic loss, infrastructure damage, and community trauma.

The 2015 Cumbria floods made an indelible mark:

• The flood led to widespread property damage, which required extensive reconstruction in its wake.
• Local infrastructure suffered, with many roads and bridges destroyed or severely damaged, requiring months to years for complete restoration.
• Significant environmental impact was seen in the form of eroded soils and compromised wildlife habitats.

The Long-Term Implications of the Cumbria Floods 2015

The floods of 2015 had far-reaching implications for Cumbria, impacting not just the environment and infrastructure, but also the region's economy and community dynamics.

Long-term implications of a flood event extend beyond immediate damage to property or resources. They include ongoing economic hardship, changes in land use, changes in community structure, and influencing future policy concerning flood defence and management.

Here are some of the significant long-term effects of the 2015 Cumbria floods:

• Communities were significantly affected with many residents wrestling with the psychological trauma of the event long after the waters subsided.
• The floods' economic toll was significant, with enormous costs associated with repairs, insurance payouts, and loss of business.
• Policy change and increased investment around flood defences and flood prevention strategies have become more prominent.

The 2015 Cumbria floods urged a recalibration of flood management strategies. Significant resources were directed towards better understanding the local topography, climate, urban development, and infrastructure – insights that are now guiding how Cumbria prepares for and responds to catastrophic flood events.

Positive and Negative Impacts of Cumbria Floods

The aftermath of Cumbria's floods presented both challenges and opportunities, encapsulating both the harsh reality of natural disasters as well as the resilience of the affected communities.

The positive impact of a flood sounds counterintuitive but can contribute to community solidarity, generation of employment in the reconstruction phase, and improvements in flood defences for future events. In contrast, the negative impacts are widely known, such as damage to property, loss of life, psychological trauma, and economic hardship.

• Negative Impacts: Major repercussions such as damage to homes, personal injury, psychological trauma, financial hardship, environmental degradation and community displacement rank among the negative impacts.
• Positive Impacts: On the brighter side, floods also sparked community solidarity, increased employment in reconstruction, and improved flood defences and preparedness for future events.

Flood In Cumbria - Key takeaways

• Flooding in Cumbria refers to the overflow of large amounts of water beyond normal confines, often causing devastation to communities, infrastructure, and leading to loss of life.
• Key causes of flooding in Cumbria include heavy rainfall, topography, soil conditions, and human intervention, often leading to significant destruction and isolation of communities. The 2009 floods were notably damaging.
• The impact of flooding on the physical environment entails dramatic landscape changes, soil erosion, and disruption to wildlife habitats. Flood defences in Cumbria aim minimize this impact, though they can also cause environmental disruptions.
• The Cumbria floods in 2015, initiated by 'Storm Desmond', led to widespread flooding and significant damage in the region, affecting communities, infrastructure, and the environment.
• The aftermath of Cumbria floods has both positive and negative impacts, encompassing property damage, community trauma, economic hardship, as well as improved community resilience, increased employment in reconstruction, and advancements in flood defences and preparedness.

Flashcards in Flood in Cumbria 14

Flood defenses were installed,  early warning systems or river dredging 

In 2009, the town of Seathwaite in Cumbria recorded the highest rainfall in the UK over a 24-hour period.

Post-flood impacts included increased community solidarity, generation of employment during the reconstruction phase, and improvements in flood defences and preparedness for future events.

After-effects of a flood refer to both immediate and long-term consequences experienced by natural and human systems once floodwaters have receded, such as changes to the physical environment, economic loss, infrastructure damage, and community trauma.

Flooding is an overflow of large amounts of water beyond its normal confines, commonly affecting areas of dry land. It can cause extensive damage to communities, destroying homes and businesses, and potentially leading to loss of life.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Flood in Cumbria

When were the Cumbria floods? 

The Cumbria floods occurred in both November 2009 and December 2015

How were the Cumbria floods managed? 

The floods were managed in various ways such as implementing a flood management strategy, flood defences such as a self-closing river barrier, river dredging, and early warning systems. 

Why is Cumbria prone to flooding? 

Cumbria is prone to flooding due to the location of towns such as Cockermouth at the confluence of the Derwent and Cocker rivers. The area is also prone to storms and intense rainfall, with flooding events expected to become more frequent in the future due to climate change. 

Why did the Cumbria floods in 2009 happen? 

As a result of a deep depression which was formed in the Atlantic Ocean, warm air rose over the Cumbrian mountains and fell as relief rainfall. This heavy rainfall fell into the Derwent and Cocker rivers, with the rivers bursting their banks resulting in flooding. 

What were the effects of the flood in Cumbria in 2015? 

The 2015 floods were one of the worst and most destructive floods in the UK, with 7,465 properties flooded, transport disrupted, and water polluted to name some of the impacts. The floods were also estimated to have cost £500 million in damage. 

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_____ rain fell during the November 2009 floods 

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Flooding Case studies GCSE

Cockermouth, UK – Rich Country (MEDC) Picture Causes: Rain A massive downpour of rain (31.4cm), over a 24-hour period triggered the floods that hit Cockermouth and Workington in Cumbria in November 2009

What caused all the rain? The long downpour was caused by a lengthy flow of warm, moist air that came down from the Azores in the mid-Atlantic. This kind of airflow is common in the UK during autumn and winter, and is known as a ‘warm conveyor’. The warmer the air is, the more moisture it can hold.

What else helped to cause the Cumbrian Floods? · The ground was already saturated, so the additional rain flowed as surface run-off straight into the rivers · The steep slopes of the Cumbrian Mountains helped the water to run very rapidly into the rivers · The rivers Derwent and Cocker were already swollen with previous rainfall · Cockermouth is at the confluence of the Derwent and Cocker (i.e. they meet there)

The effects of the flood · Over 1300 homes were flooded and contaminated with sewage · A number of people had to be evacuated, including 50 by helicopter, when the flooding cut off Cockermouth town centre · Many businesses were flooded causing long-term difficulties for the local economy · People were told that they were unlikely to be able to move back into flood-damaged homes for at least a year. The cost of putting right the damage was an average of £28,000 per house · Insurance companies estimated that the final cost of the flood could reach £100 million · Four bridges collapsed and 12 were closed because of flood damage. In Workington, all the bridges were destroyed or so badly damaged that they were declared unsafe – cutting the town in two. People faced a huge round trip to get from one side of the town to the other, using safe bridges · One man died– PC Bill Barker

Responses to the flood · The government provided £1 million to help with the clean-up and repairs and agreed to pay for road and bridge repairs in Cumbria · The Cumbria Flood Recovery Fund was set up to help victims of the flood. It reached £1 million after just 10 days · Network Rail opened a temporary railway station in Workington The ‘Visit Cumbria’ website provided lists of recovery services and trades, and people who could provide emergency accommodation

Management of future floods at Cockermouth £4.4 million pound management scheme New flood defence walls will halt the spread of the river Funding from Government and local contributors River dredged more regularly to deepen the channel New embankments raise the channel height to reduce the likelihood of extra floods New floodgates at the back of houses in Waterloo street

Pakistan, Asia – Poor Country Picture At the end of July 2010 usually heavy monsoon rains in northwest Pakistan caused rivers to flood and burst their banks. The map below shows the huge area of Pakistan affected by flooding. The floodwater slowly moved down the Indus River towards the sea.

Continuing heavy rain hampered the rescue efforts. After visiting Pakistan, the UN Secretary General, Ban Ki-moon, said that this disaster was worse than anything he’d ever seen. He described the floods as a slow-moving tsunami.

The effect of the floods · At least 1600 people died · 20 million Pakistanis were affected (over 10% of the population), 6 million needed food aid · Whole villages were swept away, and over 700,000 homes were damaged or destroyed · Hundreds of thousands of Pakistanis were displaced, and many suffered from malnutrition and a lack of clean water · 5000 miles of roads and railways were washed away, along with 1000 bridges · 160,000km2 of land were affected. That’s at least 20% of the country · About 6.5 million acres of crops were washed away in Punjab and Sindh provinces

The responses to the floods · Appeals were immediately launched by international organisation, like the UK’s Disasters Emergency Committee – and the UN – to help Pakistanis hit by the floods · Many charities and aid agencies provided help, including the Red Crescent and Medecins Sans Frontieres · Pakistan’s government also tried to raise money to help the huge number of people affected · But there were complaints that the Pakistan government was slow to respond to the crisis, and that it struggled to cope · Foreign Governments donated millions of dollars, and Saudi Arabia and the USA promised $600 million in flood aid. But many people felt that the richer foreign governments didn’t do enough to help · The UN’s World Food Programme provided crucial food aid. But, by November 2010, they were warning that they might have cut the amount of food handed out, because of a lack of donations from richer countries