???? 1 in 5 properties in England are at risk of flooding according to an alarming report. Climate change is exacerbating the threat, with worrying projections for the future. Discover the most exposed areas and the measures envisaged to…
A recent analysis by the English Environment Agency sounds the alarm: around one in five properties in England are at risk of flooding, a worrying increase of 15% compared to 2018. This growing threat , exacerbated by climate change, raises serious concerns for the future.
6.3 Million Properties in At-Risk Areas
According to the latest report, as many as 6.3 million homes and businesses are currently in areas at risk of flooding from river, sea or surface water. This impressive figure marks a clear increase compared to the 5.5 million properties recorded during the previous assessment in 2018.
The Environment Agency, responsible for flood management for the government, has integrated for the first time the latest climate projections established by the Met Office, the British meteorological agency. This new data allows a more precise and up-to-date assessment of flood risks.
Alarming Projections for the Coming Decades
But what is more worrying are the medium and long term projections. Indeed, with the worsening of climate changethe total number of properties affected by these flood risks could increase to approximately 8 million by mid-centuryor approximately one property in four. A disaster scenario that requires urgent and concerted action.
Increased Risk of Flash Floods
Among the threats identified, flash flooding, which occurs when drainage systems are overwhelmed by heavy rain, now affects around 4.6 million properties. This represents an alarming 43% increase from the 2018 assessment.
These changes are almost entirely due to significant improvements in the Environment Agency’s data, modeling and use of technology, which enable a more accurate assessment of flood risk.
according to a spokesperson for the Environment Agency
Coastal Erosion, a Growing Threat
In addition to flooding,coastal erosion also represents a growing danger. According to analyses, around 3,500 properties will be in areas at risk of erosion by 2055. A figure which will exceed 10,000 before the end of the century if no measures are taken.
Recent Storms, a Foretaste of the Future?
The violent storms Bert and Darragh which swept across the UK in recent weeks, bringing gusty winds and heavy rain, could well be a foretaste of the extreme weather events that will increase with global warming. Scientists warn: severe floods, droughts and wildfires are likely to become more frequent and intense.
Crucial Information to Better Protect Populations
Faced with these major challenges, having precise and detailed information on flood risks taking into account climate change appears essential. As Hannah Bartram of the Association of Directors of Environment, Planning and Transport points out:
More detailed information on flood risks, taking into account climate change, is essential for local authorities to plan effectively and protect people.
The data and analyzes provided by the Environment Agency must therefore be used by the government and local authorities to improve flood protection measures and anticipate future challenges. Because with the intensification of extreme weather phenomena, it is the safety and future of millions of homes and businesses that are at stake.
Collective awareness and determined action are needed now to stem this growing threat and build more resilient communities facing the impacts of climate change. The time is no longer for observations but for concrete and sustainable solutions to protect populations and infrastructure from the risks of flooding and coastal erosion.
