Flooding in the Somerset Levels CCEA Theme A GCSE

What is the main reason for high levels of surface runoff in the Somerset Levels?

• Low interception and infiltration levels

• High tides at the coast

• Lack of proper dredging in the rivers

• Diversion of water from Taunton & Bridgwater

According to the Met Office, how much rainfall did Southern England receive in January?

• 207 mm

• 100 mm

• 50 mm

• Twice the expected total

What contributes to the worsening of flooding in the Somerset Levels?

(a)  

• Quick filling up of soil moisture storage
• High river levels

• Low interception and infiltration levels

• High tides at the coast

What has happened due to the Rivers Tone & Parrett not being properly dredged in 20 years?

• Deposition of silt has decreased the width and depth of the channels

• Lack of rainfall in the area

• Low interception and infiltration levels

• Diversion of water from Taunton & Bridgwater

What is the purpose of diverting water into the Somerset Levels from Taunton & Bridgwater?

• To lower the chances of flooding in Taunton & Bridgwater

• To increase the chances of flooding in the Somerset Levels

• To protect new build homes on former floodplains

• To decrease the volume of water and reduce the flooding problem

What effect does the deposition of silt have on the capacity of the rivers?

• Decreases the capacity of the rivers

• Increases the capacity of the rivers

• Has no effect on the capacity of the rivers

• Causes the rivers to dry up

What caused water to back up along in rivers across the Levels and Moors?

• High tides at the coast

• Low interception and infiltration levels

• Deposition of silt in the rivers

• High river levels

How long has it been since the Rivers Tone & Parrett were properly dredged?

(a)