‘Homes may have to be abandoned’: how climate crisis has reshaped Britain’s flood risk
As rivers swell and homes are cut off, scientists say UK winter rainfall is already 20 years ahead of predictions
TL;DR
- Storms are causing rapid flooding in south-west England, with rains arriving much faster than in previous events.
- Scientists warn that climate change impacts, including intense rainfall, are occurring 20 years ahead of climate model predictions.
- Warmer air holds more water, leading to heavier downpours and more intense storms, directly linked to fossil fuel burning.
- Existing flood protection measures and infrastructure are struggling to keep pace with the increased frequency and severity of extreme weather.
- There is a significant gap between planned actions and felt impacts of climate change, with underfunding and a lack of delivery hampering resilience efforts.
- Some communities may face the unthinkable prospect of abandonment in the future due to persistent flooding.
- Maintenance of flood defences and drainage systems is crucial but often underfunded, leading to a growing backlog.
- The intensity of rainfall is causing flash floods in areas not historically prone to flooding, overwhelming outdated drainage systems.
- Global carbon emissions continue to set records, contributing to the ongoing climate crisis and increasing flood risk.