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Case study UK

Somerset Levels

Somerset

Flooding on the Somerset Levels depends on how quickly water can leave a low-lying landscape. Saturated ground, river capacity, tides and drainage management all influence the response.

Floodwater surrounds Burrowbridge in the Somerset Levels in February 2014.
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Burrowbridge, Somerset, February 2014. Low relief slows the drainage of extensive floodwater.
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Location: 51.13°, -2.83°

Much of the Levels is low and flat, so water can move away slowly. Prolonged rain fills soil and channel stores before additional water spreads over the floodplain. Embankments, pumping and the tidal conditions downstream influence where water accumulates and how long it remains.

Use the hydrograph model to compare a rapid runoff response with a long falling limb. Ask students to distinguish the rainfall that supplies water from the drainage conditions that control its removal.

Open this state in the lab

Exam-style question

Using the idea of lag time, explain why the Somerset Levels can stay flooded long after the rain has stopped.

Teacher hint: Explain how saturated ground adds runoff while low gradients and restricted outlets can prolong the flood’s falling limb.

Process labs

Storm hydrographRiver long profileDrainage basin

Sources

  • Environment Agency — Somerset
  • UKCEH hydrology