Table of Contents
When did the Boscastle flood start and end?
The last time Boscastle had suffered notable flooding was in 1996 as a result of Hurricane Lili, but floods are recorded in 1847, 1957, on 3 June 1958 (one man drowned) and on 6 February during the Winter of 1962–63 in the United Kingdom….2004 Boscastle flood.
| The old Cornish Stores shop | |
|---|---|
| Date | 16 August 2004 |
| Property damage | Extensive |
What caused the flood in Boscastle in 2004?
A lack of flood protection and old, small drainage systems which were insufficient to cope with the flow. Trees and vehicles blocked the river channel, particularly under a bridge in the centre of Boscastle, see Figure 6, which led to the river bursting its banks and further flooding in nearby properties.
How many people died at Boscastle?
The Boscastle flood came 52 years to the day after floods in Lynmouth, Devon, swept 34 people to their deaths.
What happened during the Boscastle flood 2004?
An estimated 440million gallons of water swept through the picturesque West Country town on 16 August 2004, after heavy rainfall led to the bursting of banks and the convergence of three rivers. A total of 58 properties were flooded while four others were completely destroyed.
When was the Lynmouth flood?
1952
The disaster which occurred in and around the town of Lynmouth on the night of August 15th-16th 1952 remains, after 60 years, the worst river flood experienced in the UK. Over 100 buildings were destroyed and the final death toll reached 34.
Why is Boscastle vulnerable to flooding?
The drainage basin of Boscastle is steep and impermeable rock. Boscastle is also located on a confluence of three rivers. These factors led to a flash flood which caused over one thousand homes, cars and businesses to be swept away and damaged.
How long did it take for the Boscastle flood to subside?
Ten years on from devastation: How the pretty Cornish village of Boscastle was ravaged by floods in 2004 but has slowly recovered. Ten years may have passed but memories of the Boscastle flood are as fresh today as if it had happened yesterday.
How many people died in the Lynmouth floods?
34 people
Trees were uprooted and formed dams behind bridges, creating walls of water that carried huge boulders into the village. In all, 34 people in Lynmouth and surrounding hamlets were killed, and 39 buildings collapsed.