Global Warming

The UK has experienced heavy floods over the past decade, which have affected thousands of people and caused millions of pounds worth of damage. The rainfall in June and July 2007 was about 20% higher than ever seen before in records that go back to 1879.

Although it is impossible to say this flooding was a result of climate change, some computer predictions say that we can expect to see more extreme weather events such as flooding in the future.

The Met Office however project that while heavy summer rains may become more frequent, summers are likely to be drier overall, especially in the south of Britain.

According to the Environment Agency, at present 2.3 million homes and 185,000 businesses are at risk of flooding in England and Wales representing property, land and assets to the value of over ÂŁ200bn.

Adapting our homes to cope with flooding (particularly new homes) seems vital. Building them on higher ground, away from flood plains, with materials which can withstand heavy rainfall seems to be a good idea.

However, the Environment Agencies throughout the UK are also looking into the problem of flood defences as there are many areas where these would be beneficial, although the financial implications of such schemes has to be considered.

For many people around the World, particularly in developing countries, the dangers associated with flooding are serious. Houses in many countries can be destroyed instantly as a result of heavy rain and flooding.