411 REFERENCE · Wikipedia
2009 Great Britain and Ireland floods
Reference material by Wikipedia contributors. This retains its source identity and is not 411 news reporting.
Natural disaster in the UK and Ireland
October 2013
November 2020
2009 Great Britain and Ireland floods
November 2009 Great Britain and Ireland floods map.svg
Map of the British Isles showing affected regions
#0080FF Areas affected by flooding#002255 Death(s) from flooding#C83737 Areas affected by strong winds#550000 Death(s) from strong winds
1 November 2009 – December 2009
4
Ireland Cork County Carlow County Clare County Cork County Dublin County Galway County Kerry County Kildare County Kilkenny County Leitrim County Limerick County Longford County Mayo County Offaly County Roscommon County Sligo County Tipperary County Westmeath Northern Ireland
England Cornwall Cumbria Devon Dorset East Sussex Essex Hampshire Isle of Wight Kent Lancashire Shropshire Suffolk West Sussex
Northern Ireland County LondonderryCounty Tyrone
Scotland Dumfries and Galloway Perth and Kinross Scottish Borders
Wales Carmarthenshire Conwy Pembrokeshire Powys
Elsewhere Isle of Man
The 2009 Great Britain and Ireland floods were a weather event that affected parts of Great Britain and Ireland throughout November and into December 2009. November was the wettest month across the United Kingdom since records began in 1914 and had well above average temperatures.http://www.metoffice.gov.uk/climate/uk/2009/november.html November 2009 The Met Office 6 December 2009 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20110605051755/http://www.metoffice.gov.uk/climate/uk/2009/november.html 5 June 2011 The worst affected area in Great Britain was the English county of Cumbria. The Irish counties of Clare, Cork, Galway and Westmeath were among the worst affected areas of Ireland.
European windstorms bringing heavy rain and gale-force winds caused damage and flooding to the south of Great Britain on 13–14 November. Unsettled weather continued across the south and later to the north. On 19–20 November, many towns and villages in Cumbria and Dumfries and Galloway were affected. A number of bridges collapsed, one of which led to the death of a police officer, who was standing on the bridge when it collapsed.https://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/england/cumbria/8370692.stm Body found in floods search is missing policeman 20 November 2009 BBC News 20 November 2009 London https://web.archive.org/web/20091123100906/http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/cumbria/8370692.stm 23 November 2009 livehttp://news.sky.com/skynews/Home/UK-News/Floods-Police-Confirm-That-Body-Found-On-Beach-In-Cumbria-Is-Missing-Bridge-Collapse-Pc-Bill-Barker/Article/200911315458931?lpos=UK_News_Carousel_Region_0&lid=ARTICLE_15458931_Floods%3A_Police_Confirm_That_Body_Found_On_Beach_In_Cumbria_Is_Missing_Bridge_Collapse_Pc_Bill_Barker Police confirm that body is missing bridge collapse officer 20 November 2009 Sky News 20 November 2009 London https://web.archive.org/web/20091124103838/http://news.sky.com/skynews/Home/UK-News/Floods-Police-Confirm-That-Body-Found-On-Beach-In-Cumbria-Is-Missing-Bridge-Collapse-Pc-Bill-Barker/Article/200911315458931?lpos=UK_News_Carousel_Region_0&lid=ARTICLE_15458931_Floods%3A_Police_Confirm_That_Body_Found_On_Beach_In_Cumbria_Is_Missing_Bridge_Collapse_Pc_Bill_Barker 24 November 2009 dead Another death occurred on 21 November as a canoeist was trapped against a tree near Poundsgate, on Dartmoor in Devon. In Powys, there were two deaths, at Newtown and Talybont-on-Usk.
Among the many places severely flooded was the Republic of Ireland's second largest city, Cork.Shanahan Catherine http://examiner.ie/home/devastation-106121.html Devastation | Irish Examiner Examiner.ie 21 November 2009 23 November 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20100105225158/http://www.examiner.ie/home/devastation-106121.html 5 January 2010 deadDonal Thornton http://www.irishcentral.com/news/Ireland-faces-massive-clean-up-bill-for-worst-flooding-in-living-memory-70612252.html Ireland faces massive clean-up bill for worst flooding in living memory 20 November 2009 20 November 2009 Irish Central https://web.archive.org/web/20091123223810/http://www.irishcentral.com/news/Ireland-faces-massive-clean-up-bill-for-worst-flooding-in-living-memory-70612252.html 23 November 2009 live For more than ten days, 40 per cent of its population were without running water after a treatment plant was affected by several metres of flood water.http://www.rte.ie/news/2009/1121/weather.html RTÉ News: South & West on alert as more rain forecast RTÉ.ie 21 November 2009 23 November 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091124073121/http://www.rte.ie/news/2009/1121/weather.html 24 November 2009 live University College Cork was damaged and at least a week of lectures was cancelled.http://breakingnews.ie/ireland/council-declares-civic-emergency-in-cork-435282.html Council declares civic emergency in Cork BreakingNews.ie 21 November 2009 21 November 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091124113447/http://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/council-declares-civic-emergency-in-cork-435282.html 24 November 2009 live Courts were also disrupted, with some eventually being moved to a hotel. At the time, Taoiseach Brian Cowen described the situation in Ireland as an "ongoing emergency" that was going to get worse.Colm Heatley https://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601102&sid=aA.2NT55emKc Brian Cowen Says Ireland's Flooding Is Continuing Emergency 26 November 2009 27 November 2009 BloombergAnn Cahill http://www.irishexaminer.com/ireland/climate-change-rain-warning-106459.html Climate change rain warning 26 November 2009 27 November 2009 Irish Examiner
Event
Before the severe gales affecting the United Kingdom on 13 November, unsettled weather had been affecting all of the United Kingdom since 12 November.http://www.metoffice.gov.uk/corporate/pressoffice/2009/ht20091117.html Stormy weather 13 and 14 November 2009 17 November 2009 The Met Office 20 November 2009 dead http://webarchive.nationalarchives.gov.uk/20091209175328/http://www.metoffice.gov.uk/corporate/pressoffice/2009/ht20091117.html 9 December 2009
thumb|left|Sea conditions observed on 14 November in Brighton, England
On 13 November an area of low pressure developed to the south-west of Ireland. It moved north-eastwards across the Irish Sea and west Scotland on 14 November. Weather fronts bringing heavy rain swept across the west and south of the United Kingdom. 30 mm in of rainfall in three hours was recorded in some parts of Sussex and Hampshire. The wind, coming from the south, reached gale to severe gale strength on 13 November; gusting between 65 and 75 mph in some areas. On 14 November, strong winds and showers affected southern Great Britain, with winds gusting up to 50 and 90 mph on the coast. A tornado was reported to have occurred in the east of England on 14 November.
Over the night of 19–20 November 2009, a forecast depression tracked northwest over Ireland, the Isle of Man, Cumbria and Dumfries and Galloway. Rainfall in a 24-hour period was recorded at 71.6 mm in in at Shap and 64.2 mm in in at Keswick. At Seathwaite Farm, Borrowdale, rainfall was recorded at 314.4 mm in in in a 24-hour period which the Met Office state is provisionally a UK record for any single location.http://www.metoffice.gov.uk/corporate/pressoffice/2009/pr20091120.html http://webarchive.nationalarchives.gov.uk/20091209150732/http://www.metoffice.gov.uk/corporate/pressoffice/2009/pr20091120.html dead 9 December 2009 Recent heavy rain over north-west Britain Met Office 20 November 2009 News Archive Met Office 21 November 2009 At Penrith a multi-agency co-ordination centre was established.http://www.thewestmorlandgazette.co.uk/news/4749631.Cumbria_flooding__Police_urge_against_unnecessary_travel_or_fell_walking/ Cumbria flooding: Police urge against unnecessary travel or fell walking The Westmorland Gazette 20 November 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091122110542/http://www.thewestmorlandgazette.co.uk/news/4749631.Cumbria_flooding__Police_urge_against_unnecessary_travel_or_fell_walking/ 22 November 2009 live The floods were described as "the worst in 55 years".http://www.thewestmorlandgazette.co.uk/news/4749177.Cumbria_flooding___Worst_in_55_years____Kendal_couple/ Cumbria flooding: 'Worst in 55 years' – Kendal couple The Westmorland Gazette 20 November 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091122110532/http://www.thewestmorlandgazette.co.uk/news/4749177.Cumbria_flooding___Worst_in_55_years____Kendal_couple/ 22 November 2009 live The Met Office reported that at Eskdalemuir, the amount of rainfall recorded in a 24-hour period exceeded the previous record set in 1931.
Heavy rain across Devon on 21 November caused the River Dart on Dartmoor to swell. A group of canoeists on the river were treated for hypothermia and one of the members died after being trapped against a tree at Poundsgate.https://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/england/devon/8372604.stm Canoeist dies after being pulled from River Dart, Devon 21 November 2009 BBC News 21 November 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091124093309/http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/devon/8372604.stm 24 November 2009 live
Damage
1–12 November
The Met Office predicted that an area of low pressure would "explosively deepen close to the UK on Sunday 1 November,"http://www.metoffice.gov.uk/corporate/pressoffice/2009/ht20091102.html https://archive.today/20100117123311/http://www.metoffice.gov.uk/corporate/pressoffice/2009/ht20091102.html dead 17 January 2010 Deep depression brings heavy rain on 1 November 2009 2 November 2009 23 November 2009 Met Office which resulted in heavy rain across the country. Thirteen people were rescued from homes and vehicles in more than 100 flooding incidents across Wales.https://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/wales/8336502.stm Thirteen rescued after flooding 1 November 2009 23 November 2009 BBC News https://web.archive.org/web/20091104061509/http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/wales/8336502.stm 4 November 2009 live
In Scotland on 1 November, Angus and Aberdeenshire were badly hit by flooding, causing transport disruption, burst pipes and the evacuation of hundreds of homes. The coastal town of Arbroath was one of the worst affected, being virtually cut off by severe flooding
In Northern Ireland, villages near the County Tyrone-County Londonderry border were hit by heavy rainfall the night of 4 November causing several families to be evacuated, and more than a dozen homes flooded.http://www.nwipp-newspapers.com/SC/free/332268844707712.php Councillor in call for emergency meeting after flooding devastates the Magheramason area 12 November 2009 23 November 2009 Strabane Chronicle https://web.archive.org/web/20091116082646/http://www.nwipp-newspapers.com/SC/free/332268844707712.php 16 November 2009 dead
Sligo was heavily flooded on 9 November.http://www.rte.ie/news/2009/1109/flooding.html Heavy flooding in Sligo 9 November 2009 22 November 2009 RTÉ https://web.archive.org/web/20091113141125/http://www.rte.ie/news/2009/1109/flooding.html 13 November 2009 live Passage West in County Cork was subjected to a thirty-minute flash flood on 12 November, causing an estimated €100,000 worth of damage and wrecking ten cars and several homes.http://www.rte.ie/news/2009/1112/flooding.html Cork clean-up after flooding 12 November 2009 22 November 2009 RTÉ https://web.archive.org/web/20091123085156/http://www.rte.ie/news/2009/1112/flooding.html 23 November 2009 live
13–15 November
The area of low pressure affecting southern Great Britain on 13–14 November caused some surface water flooding and damage from gales. Surface water flooding affected Devon and Cornwall. The gale-force winds across the counties brought down trees, branches, power cables and roofs. Local authorities and the Highways Agency were strained in maintaining traffic flow. Dorset reported coastal flooding as severe gales occurred during high tide. Some residents across the Welsh counties of Pembrokeshire and Carmarthenshire were rescued by Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service. Flooding was widespread in the Conwy Valley, with homes in Betws-y-Coed, Llanrwst and nearby villages affected.http://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/wales-news/2009/11/19/wales-braced-for-more-winds-floods-and-possibly-a-tornado-91466-25202740/ https://archive.today/20130114050625/http://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/wales-news/2009/11/19/wales-braced-for-more-winds-floods-and-possibly-a-tornado-91466-25202740/ dead 14 January 2013 Wales braced for more winds, floods – and possibly a tornado 19 November 2009 Wales Online 20 November 2009 Twelve people were rescued from a coach trapped in floodwater at Haverfordwest.
The Environment Agency issued 110 flood warnings prior to the storm reaching Great Britain on 13–14 November. Peak gusts reached 100 mph at The Needles lighthouse, Isle of Wight. A tornado developed in Benfleet, Essex, damaging 60 homes.https://www.independent.co.uk/environment/nature/dover-closed-as-winds-hit-100mph-1820951.html Dover closed as winds hit 100 mph Chambers Charlotte 15 November 2009 The Independent 20 November 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091125091829/http://www.independent.co.uk/environment/nature/dover-closed-as-winds-hit-100mph-1820951.html 25 November 2009 live London Another tornado in Lowestoft, Suffolk brought down a tree trapping a woman in a car.https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/6570555/Four-teenagers-die-in-crash-as-storms-batter-Britain.html Four teenagers die in crash as storms batter Britain David Barrett The Daily Telegraph 14 November 2009 22 November 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091117120105/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/6570555/Four-teenagers-die-in-crash-as-storms-batter-Britain.html 17 November 2009 live London In Haywards Heath, West Sussex, people were rescued from units on an industrial estate which was 60 cm ft 0 deep in water.https://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/8358530.stm Floods as UK faces stormy gales BBC News Online 22 November 2009 14 November 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091119033254/http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/8358530.stm 19 November 2009 live
18–25 November
Great Britain
vertical 200 Northside_Bridge,_Workington.jpg Northside Bridge, Workington-1.JPG Northside Bridge over the River Derwent in Workington, seen here before and after it was destroyed
thumb|Damage done to the Southwaite Mill Bridge
thumb|The approach to Calva Bridge, Workington, 20 November 2009 thumb|Calva Bridge, Workington, which was condemned as a result of damage received in the flooding
In Lancashire, firefighters had to rescue schoolchildren trapped in a bus stranded by floodwater at Sawley, and flooding occurred in Barnoldswick, Blackburn, Burnley and Rossendale. Workers at Kippax Mill in Crawshawbooth were evacuated when the building was hit by a landslide as the hill collapsed under the weight of water.Nazia Parveen http://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/news/ribblevalley/sawley/4745125.East_Lancashire_hit_by_floods_____and_more_to_come/ East Lancashire hit by floods – and more to come 19 November 2009 Lancashire Telegraph 20 November 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091125144546/http://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/news/ribblevalley/sawley/4745125.East_Lancashire_hit_by_floods_____and_more_to_come/ 25 November 2009 dead
Many properties were flooded in Ambleside, leaving the main road impassable for most vehicles.https://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/8369699.stm Cumbria floods: Your stories 20 November 2009 BBC News 20 November 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091123104350/http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/8369699.stm 23 November 2009 live Over 200 people in Cockermouth were rescued from their homes by the emergency services.https://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/8366360.stm More than 200 people rescued in floods in Cumbria town BBC News 20 November 2009 20 November 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091120131250/http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/8366360.stm 20 November 2009 live About 75 people were accommodated overnight in Cockermouth School and the Shepherds Hotel (known locally as the Sheep & Wool Centre). Search and rescue helicopters from RAF Valley, RAF Boulmer and RAF Leconfield rescued approximately 50 people, with the remainder being rescued by boat, particularly by the RNLI, and HM Coastguard. A Coastguard helicopter was deployed to the area from Stornoway to supplement the military SAR assets. Water levels in the town centre were reported to be as high as 2.50 m ftin, resulting in the collapse of Lorton Bridge,https://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/8369934.stm Cumbria floods: Body found in hunt for policeman BBC News 20 November 2009 20 November 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091123211549/http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/8369934.stm 23 November 2009 live and over 1,200 properties losing their electricity supply.https://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/england/cumbria/8369400.stm Hundreds of people rescued in flood-hit Cockermouth BBC News 20 November 2009 20 November 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091121223630/http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/cumbria/8369400.stm 21 November 2009 live Coniston Water burst its banks and submerged roads, fields and local premises. Electricity supply was lost to 349 properties in Keswick. About 50 people were accommodated overnight in Keswick's Convention Centre, as well as the Skiddaw Hotel and St Joseph's School. Several homes were also flooded in the town after the River Greta burst its banks, rising 1.5 m ftin above normal.http://www.pressandjournal.co.uk/Article.aspx/1491711?UserKey= The Press and Journal: Battle to Rescue Hundreds Trapped in Severe Flooding 20 November 2009
In south Ulverston, a number of residents had to be evacuated – around 80 homes were flooded on North Lonsdale Road and the surrounding areas,https://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/cumbria/8371926.stm Flood victims face further chaos BBC News 21 November 2009 22 November 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091124095729/http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/cumbria/8371926.stm 24 November 2009 live with many accommodated at Ulverston Victoria High School.http://www.thewestmorlandgazette.co.uk/news/4750408.Cumbria_flooding__Ulverston_evacuation_centre_opened/ Cumbria flooding: Ulverston evacuation centre opened The Westmorland Gazette 20 November 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091123181823/http://www.thewestmorlandgazette.co.uk/news/4750408.Cumbria_flooding__Ulverston_evacuation_centre_opened/ 23 November 2009 live A number of A roads in the surrounding area had to be closed off and some train services were disrupted.http://www.nwemail.co.uk/news/ulverston/water_mess_1_639756?referrerPath=news/ Flooding hits Cumbria North West Evening Mail 20 November 2009 21 November 2009 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20110605104359/http://www.nwemail.co.uk/news/ulverston/water_mess_1_639756?referrerPath=news%2F 5 June 2011
In Workington, the Northside Bridge over the River Derwent collapsed. The bridge carried the A597 and its collapse cut off gas supplies to the town. Bill Barker, a police constable, died in the bridge collapse, following a called-off lifeboat search. The replacement for Northside Bridge has been finished in 2015.New Civil Engineer, 25 May 2010 p11. https://web.archive.org/web/20110707205905/http://www.balfourbeatty.com/bby/media/inthenews/2010-05-27a/2010-05-27a.pdf 7 July 2011
The Southwaite Footbridge on the trackbed of the dismantled Cockermouth and Workington Railway collapsed.
The bridge over the River Cocker in Low Lorton was also destroyed. Its replacement opened on Monday 31 January.
On Windermere in the Lake District approximately 20 boats sank due to the floods. The boats were all moored to a fixed pier, and could not rise with the rising water.http://www.thewestmorlandgazette.co.uk/news/4753119.Cummbria_flooding__Boats_sunk_on_Windermere/ Cumbria flooding: Boats sunk on Windermere The Westmorland Gazette 21 November 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091124110820/http://www.thewestmorlandgazette.co.uk/news/4753119.Cummbria_flooding__Boats_sunk_on_Windermere/ 24 November 2009 live
Also in Workington, Calva Bridge was reported on 22 November to have dropped by about 300 mm ft 0. Police warned that it could collapse too.http://uk.news.yahoo.com/5/20091122/tuk-urgent-checks-on-cumbria-s-1-800-bri-45dbed5.html Urgent Checks on Cumbria's 1,800 Bridges Sky News 22 November 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091124072348/http://uk.news.yahoo.com/5/20091122/tuk-urgent-checks-on-cumbria-s-1-800-bri-45dbed5.html 24 November 2009 dead The bridge was later condemned, leaving residents in Northside a 40 mi km journey to get into Workington.https://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/8373577.stm Cumbria flood areas face school and road closures BBC News Online 23 November 2009 23 November 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091124142957/http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/8373577.stm 24 November 2009 live Calva bridge had been built in 1841 by Thomas Milton. It was designed by Thomas Nelson. The bridge is a Grade II listed building.1327212 WORKINGTON BRIDGE, NORTHSIDE ROAD (south off), WORKINGTON, ALLERDALE, CUMBRIA 23 November 2009 Although badly damaged, it was decided that the bridge could be repaired, as work carried out in 2005 to waterproof the deck had strengthened the bridge too. The contract for the repair work was awarded jointly to Balfour Beatty and Mouchel. Engineers warned that there was a 50% chance that the bridge could collapse during repairs. Two-thirds of the central pier's foundations had been washed away during the flood.New Civil Engineer, 27 May 2010 p10 https://web.archive.org/web/20110707205905/http://www.balfourbeatty.com/bby/media/inthenews/2010-05-27a/2010-05-27a.pdf 7 July 2011
The Dock Bridge, which carries the railway line linking Workington Docks and the steelworks, was badly damaged. Photographs show that at least one of the concrete trestles has been washed away, dislodging the rails on the bridge.http://solwayshipping.webs.com/2009floods.htm Scenes around the River Derwent in November 2009 Solway Shipping 22 November 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20110827142949/http://solwayshipping.webs.com/2009floods.htm 27 August 2011 dead
Newlands Beck Bridge, Braithwaite, near Keswick, collapsed, as did Camerton footbridge near Workington.http://www.timesandstar.co.uk/met_office_warns_of_more_heavy_rain_across_cumbria_1_638432?referrerPath=home More heavy rain due today in Cumbria Times and Star 21 November 2009 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20110929055730/http://www.timesandstar.co.uk/met_office_warns_of_more_heavy_rain_across_cumbria_1_638432?referrerPath=home 29 September 2011 http://www.cumbria.gov.uk/news/2009/november/22_11_2009-003158.asp 22/11/2009 – Update on Calva Bridge, Workington Cumbria County Council 22 November 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091125075143/http://www.cumbria.gov.uk/news/2009/november/22_11_2009-003158.asp 25 November 2009 live A suspension footbridge over the River Eamont at Dalemain also collapsed.
The Whitesands area of Dumfries was affected by flooding when the River Nith burst its banks. Five people were rescued by firefighters, and another two were rescued by boat from a stranded car.https://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/scotland/south_of_scotland/8369752.stm Flooding follows wettest November day on record BBC News Online 20 November 2009 20 November 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091123102000/http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/scotland/south_of_scotland/8369752.stm 23 November 2009 live In the Scottish Borders several homes were flooded in Ettrick and Yarrow.http://www.hawick-news.co.uk/latest-scottish-news/Sandbags-distributed-to-flood-areas.5845102.jp Hawick News: Sandbags Distributed to Flood Areas 20 November 2009 dead https://archive.today/20240524201546/https://www.webcitation.org/5mqhc8L2m?url=http://www.hawick-news.co.uk/latest-scottish-news/Sandbags-distributed-to-flood-areas.5845102.jp 24 May 2024
In Wales, a woman was reported missing in Brecon on 21 November, having apparently fallen into the River Usk after crossing a bridge that had a 1.83 m ft 0 gap in the railings. Dyfed-Powys Police and Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service started a search which was called off overnight. It was resumed the next morning.https://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/wales/8372834.stm Search for woman missing in river Usk in Powys BBC News Online 24 November 2009 22 November 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091124160552/http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/wales/8372834.stm 24 November 2009 live A body was recovered from the River Usk at Talybont-on-Usk on 24 November.https://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/wales/8376245.stm Woman's body found in river BBC News Online 24 November 2009 24 November 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091127043457/http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/wales/8376245.stm 27 November 2009 live At Newtown, Powys, the body of a pensioner was found on the banks of the River Severn on 23 November. She had been reported missing on 21 November.https://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/wales/mid_/8376867.stm Woman found dead in River Severn BBC News Online 24 November 2009 24 November 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091126065426/http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/wales/mid/8376867.stm 26 November 2009 live
In Shropshire flood defences were deployed along the Severn Valley and some minor roads were closed due to flooding.July 2019
Isle of Man
On the Isle of Man, there were power cuts in Ballaragh and Laxey but Manx Electricity restored power to all affected properties by the afternoon.https://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/europe/isle_of_man/8369886.stm Isle of Man ferry service resumes BBC News Online 21 November 2009 20 November 2009
Ireland
In the Republic of Ireland; a family of five were winched to safety by helicopter in County Galway, and damage was caused to the Lake Hotel at Killarney in County Kerry. About 40 families at Ballinasloe in County Galway had to be evacuated by boat after the River Suck burst its banks. The centre of Cork was flooded by the River Lee to a depth of 1 m ftin,https://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5hBuu_knbJQeeXPRyu9HkW9ZZNlCwD9C3CSRG1 Associated Press: Floods Devastate UK Lake District; Much of Ireland 20 November 2009 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20091124082323/http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5hBuu_knbJQeeXPRyu9HkW9ZZNlCwD9C3CSRG1 24 November 2009 and the nearby towns of Bandon, Clonakilty, Dunmanway and Skibbereen were inaccessible. University College Cork sustained widespread damage, prompting it to cancel all lectures for at least one week.http://breakingnews.iol.ie/news/ireland/university-lectures-suspended-as-floods-hit-ucc-435103.html University lectures suspended as floods hit UCC 20 November 2009 20 November 2009 Ireland Online https://web.archive.org/web/20091123065748/http://breakingnews.iol.ie/news/ireland/university-lectures-suspended-as-floods-hit-ucc-435103.html 23 November 2009 dead
Thousands of homes across the country were left with boiled-water notices, and over 40,000 homes were left without any water supply. In Cork City, over 18,000 homes on the city's north and inner south-sides were left without water for up to ten days. This was as a result of flood damage to the city's water treatment plant. The Irish Army was deployed to deal with rising floodwaters at Ennis, County Clare, Athlone, County Westmeath and Clonmel, County Tipperary.http://www.irishcentral.com/news/Ireland-faces-massive-clean-up-bill-for-worst-flooding-in-living-memory-70612252.html Irish Central: Ireland Faces Massive Clean-up Bill for Worst Flooding in Living Memory 20 November 2009 20 November 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091123223810/http://www.irishcentral.com/news/Ireland-faces-massive-clean-up-bill-for-worst-flooding-in-living-memory-70612252.html 23 November 2009 live Electricity supplies were cut off in Bandon, Cork and east County Galway.http://breakingnews.iol.ie/news/ireland/esb-cuts-off-power-supply-in-some-flood-areas-435150.html https://archive.today/20130108050606/http://breakingnews.iol.ie/news/ireland/esb-cuts-off-power-supply-in-some-flood-areas-435150.html dead 8 January 2013 ESB cuts off power supply in some flood areas 20 November 2009 20 November 2009 Ireland Online The house of one old lady in Athlone was even reported to have been the victim of flooding. A lorry driver had to be lifted from his vehicle in County Roscommon after it became struck in water beneath a bridge.Colin Gleeson http://www.independent.ie/national-news/families-trapped-by-flooding-and-more-storms-on-the-way-1947874.html Families trapped by flooding and more storms on the way 19 November 2009 22 November 2009 Irish Independent https://web.archive.org/web/20100124191657/http://www.independent.ie/national-news/families-trapped-by-flooding-and-more-storms-on-the-way-1947874.html 24 January 2010 live Many homes and apartments in Athlones westbank were evacuated as the river levels of the Shannon rose.Adrian Cusack https://www.westmeathindependent.ie/2009/11/26/over-100-local-homes-evacuated-due-to-record-flooding/ Over 100 local homes evacuated due to record flooding 26 November 2009 26 November 2009 Westmeath Independent https://archive.today/20231024170437/https://www.westmeathindependent.ie/2009/11/26/over-100-local-homes-evacuated-due-to-record-flooding/ 24 October 2023 live
The floods affected a nationwide pre-planned strike action, with members of trade unions SIPTU, IMPACT and the TEEU postponing the unrest it had scheduled for County Cork, County Clare and County Galway on 24 November so that they could assist with giving as much relief as possible.http://www.rte.ie/news/2009/1122/weather.html Unions defer strike action to assist clean-up 22 November 2009 22 November 2009 RTÉ https://web.archive.org/web/20091125110518/http://www.rte.ie/news/2009/1122/weather.html 25 November 2009 live
In Northern Ireland, the low-lying areas around the River Bann in County Armagh as well as the Strabane, Ards, Cookstown, Lisburn and Magherafelt districts were affected by flooding.http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/weather/severe-flooding-in-northern-ireland-14570148.html Belfast Telegraph: Severe Flooding in Northern Ireland 20 November 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091121170633/http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/weather/severe-flooding-in-northern-ireland-14570148.html 21 November 2009 dead County Fermanagh sustained the worst levels of flooding, with water levels on Lough Erne at their highest since first being recorded in 1956, owing to 35 consecutive days of rain. The floods affected many areas close to the shore of the lough including Lisnaskea and the county town, Enniskillen.http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/local-national/fermanagh-suffers-worst-ever-flooding-14571051.html Belfast Telegraph: Fermanagh suffers worst ever flooding 24 November 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091124034326/http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/local-national/fermanagh-suffers-worst-ever-flooding-14571051.html 24 November 2009 livehttps://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/northern_ireland/foyle_and_west/8375875.stm Foyle and West: Lough Erne water at record level during floods 24 November 2009 BBC News 24 November 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091127042557/http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/northern_ireland/foyle_and_west/8375875.stm 27 November 2009 live
25–29 November
The plight of Athlone, County Westmeath came to light at this time when water levels at the town's lock reached around 50 centimetres above the previous record water level, six of these centimetres occurring during one night. Farms and housing estates were isolated, with the west side experiencing some of the worst flooding and a school being forced to close for several days. Some residents were cautiously evacuated from Limerick's Ardnacrusha district and eight homes were evacuated in Clonlara, County Clare. Farmland between Ballina and Foxford in County Mayo was flooded. Waterways Ireland claimed on 25 November that the water level of the River Shannon (Ireland's largest river) had become "unmanageable", with 33 per cent of the usual annual rain dropping in November alone.http://www.rte.ie/news/2009/1125/weather.html Red Cross seeks donations for flood victims 25 November 2009 27 November 2009 RTÉ https://web.archive.org/web/20091128000836/http://www.rte.ie/news/2009/1125/weather.html 28 November 2009 live
The water level of Lough Derg had broken all previous records by 26 November.http://www.rte.ie/news/2009/1126/weather.html No major changes in midwest flooding 26 November 2009 27 November 2009 RTÉ https://web.archive.org/web/20091129005236/http://www.rte.ie/news/2009/1126/weather.html 29 November 2009 live This caused the purposeful release of more water downstream which subsequently flooded these areas by around 10 more centimetres of water. Further evacuations took place in County Clare and the city of Limerick. The Irish Army continued to patrol Ennis. Waters continued to rise in County Galway as well at this time.
On 28–29 November torrential downpours and heavy winds spread across Devon and Cornwall, causing flooding and damage. Four people were rescued by firefighters from cars across Devon. Street-water levels reached 4 ft near Exeter and 3 ft near Sparkwell. Properties were flooded across the City of Plymouth and Ivybridge. Winds brought down an electricity pole in Millbrook, Cornwall.https://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/england/devon/8384916.stm People rescued as floods strike 29 November 2009 BBC News 29 November 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091130093131/http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/devon/8384916.stm 30 November 2009 live
Ireland's flooding shifted to the east of the country on 29 November. Dublin's River Liffey burst its banks on 29 November, flooding several areas.http://www.rte.ie/news/2009/1129/weather.html Flood alerts issued in Kildare & Dublin 29 November 2009 29 November 2009 RTÉ https://web.archive.org/web/20091130162355/http://www.rte.ie/news/2009/1129/weather.html 30 November 2009 live Towns in County Kildare which were near the Liffey, were damaged by floods, including Ballymore Eustace, Kilcullen, Newbridge, Clane, Celbridge, Naas and Leixlip.https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-30436274.html Flooding prompt evacuations in Kildare 29 November 2009 29 November 2009 Irish Examiner A Clane nursing home was evacuated.
Courts scheduled for Cork and Skibbereen were adjourned for several days due to flooded courthouses. Circuit court cases scheduled for Cork were moved to a hotel and High Court cases were moved to Clonmel.http://www.sbpost.ie/news/ireland/cork-court-moved-to-hotel-by-floods-45874.html Cork court moved to hotel by floods 29 November 2009 29 November 2009 The Sunday Business Post
30 November – 4 December
On 30 November, firefighters had to pump water from one estate in Sallins from which 104 families were subjected to an emergency evacuation.http://www.rte.ie/news/2009/1204/weather.html Water pumping begins in Sallins estate 30 November 2009 4 December 2009 RTÉ https://web.archive.org/web/20091206105232/http://www.rte.ie/news/2009/1204/weather.html 6 December 2009 live The River Liffey was still impassable at Strawberry Beds.
On 1 December, there was more torrential rain in the west, with drinking water supplies to 6,000 buildings in Galway reported to have been contaminated by human faeces and water undrinkable in more than 500 homes in Clare and Limerick.http://www.rte.ie/news/2009/1201/weather.html 6,000 Galway homes without water 1 December 2009 4 December 2009 RTÉ https://web.archive.org/web/20091204122756/http://www.rte.ie/news/2009/1201/weather.html 4 December 2009 live
On 2 December, thousands of acres of Irish farmland remained underwater, floodwaters were still rising in some Galway villages and roads in Clare and Galway were still impassable.http://www.rte.ie/news/2009/1202/weather.html Flooding eases in the west & midlands 2 December 2009 4 December 2009 RTÉ
Transport disruption
13–14 November
The Gloucester to Newport Line through Wales and England was closed at Chepstow after heavy rain caused a rockslide on 13 November. Several roads across Cornwall were flooded under 60 cm in of water. The Tamar Bridge connecting Devon and Cornwall was closed to bicycles, motorbikes and high-sided vehicles. Ferries between England and France were cancelled during the storm and the Port of Dover was closed during part of 14 November.
18–23 November
Services on the West Coast Main Line were temporarily suspended after a landslip between Carlisle and Penrith. Services resumed by midday on 20 November.
Services between Glasgow and Dunblane were suspended. The West Coast Main Line was flooded between Carlisle and Carstairs and was closed as a result. Services were reduced between Edinburgh and Glasgow and also Edinburgh and Dunblane.https://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/scotland/south_of_scotland/8369799.stm Rail services affected by heavy rain BBC News Online 20 November 2009 20 November 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091123211519/http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/scotland/south_of_scotland/8369799.stm 23 November 2009 live
The Cambrian Line was closed between Newtown, Powys and Machynlleth as a result of severe flooding on the River Dyfi. Replacement buses were provided by the service's operator, Arriva Trains Wales.
In the Republic of Ireland, Iarnród Éireann rail services were suspended between Galway and Athlone; Limerick and Ennis; Carrick-on-Shannon and Longford; Dublin and Maynooth; and Wicklow and Gorey.
On 18 November, the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company cancelled the morning ferry service from Douglas to Heysham and consequently the return service was also cancelled. The first service from Heysham was cancelled on 19 November. Services resumed with the 08:45 sailing from Douglas to Heysham.
In Kent, ferry services from Dover were affected by strong winds on 18 November. Services operated by LD Lines, Norfolkline, P&O Ferries and Seafrance were subject to delay. Kent Police implemented phase one of Operation Stack, using the M20 to park lorries on until they could be accommodated on a ferry.https://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/england/kent/8367136.stm Strong winds prompt lorry parking BBC News Online 22 November 2009 18 November 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091121134858/http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/kent/8367136.stm 21 November 2009 live
On 21 November, Irish Ferries cancelled all sailings due to have been performed by HSC Jonathan Swift on the Dublin – Holyhead route. Passengers were accommodated on Ulysses.https://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/wales/8369776.stm Warning over rising river levels BBC News Online 22 November 2009 20 November 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091123091914/http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/wales/8369776.stm 23 November 2009 live
In Workington, the collapse of Northside Bridge carrying the A597 road and the condemnation of Calva Bridge carrying the A596 resulted in a 40 mi km journey from Northside to the town centre. Network Rail constructed a temporary railway station, Workington North, to help Northside residents get into and out of town. Planning Resource The Royal Engineers from 170 (Infrastructure Support) and 3 Armoured Engineer Squadron are to install a temporary footbridge upstream of Calva Bridge, scheduled to open on 5 December 2009.https://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/england/cumbria/8381395.stm Motorists cross flood-hit bridge 26 November 2009 26 November 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091129033528/http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/cumbria/8381395.stm 29 November 2009 live
In County Fermanagh, high water levels on Lough Erne resulted in the closure of most bridges that link the east and west sides of the county. Diverted traffic was thus forced to pass through the county town of Enniskillen, itself sited on an island in the lough, causing major delays. Away from the lough, the town of Lisnaskea as well as the villages of Derrylin and Boho also saw severe flooding, resulting in several road closures.https://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/northern_ireland/foyle_and_west/8375867.stm Flood waters pose 'grave danger' BBC News Online:Northern Ireland 24 November 2009 24 November 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091128014416/http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/northern_ireland/foyle_and_west/8375867.stm 28 November 2009 live
24–29 November
25 November saw fierce winds rattle Dublin Airport leading to the diversion of ten Aer Lingus, Delta Air Lines, Etihad Airways and Ryanair aircraft—seven aircraft to Shannon Airport and three aircraft to Manchester Airport.Éanna Ó Caollaí http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/breaking/2009/1125/breaking42.htm Dublin airport hit by strong winds 25 November 2009 27 November 2009 The Irish Times Some of the affected aircraft were transatlantic flights from destinations such as Chicago and New York.Fergus Black http://www.independent.ie/national-news/flights-diverted-because-of--stormy-weather-1953689.html Flights diverted because of stormy weather 26 November 2009 27 November 2009 Irish Independent https://web.archive.org/web/20100131111349/http://www.independent.ie/national-news/flights-diverted-because-of--stormy-weather-1953689.html 31 January 2010 live
Sports disruption
All horse races scheduled for Naas racecourse on 25 November were cancelled because of waterlogging.http://www.rte.ie/sport/racing/2009/1125/naas.html https://archive.today/20130111161332/http://www.rte.ie/sport/racing/2009/1125/naas.html dead 11 January 2013 Naas off – Thurles inspection 25 November 2009 27 November 2009 RTÉ A horse race scheduled for 28 November at Wexford was cancelled four days earlier as the course was waterlogged.http://www.rte.ie/sport/racing/2009/1124/naas_wexford.html https://archive.today/20130107193532/http://www.rte.ie/sport/racing/2009/1124/naas_wexford.html dead 7 January 2013 Naas inspects but Wexford cancelled 24 November 2009 24 November 2009 RTÉ The Naas and Wexford events were rescheduled for 3 and 7 December respectively.http://www.rte.ie/sport/racing/2009/1125/naas_wexford.html https://archive.today/20130108051658/http://www.rte.ie/sport/racing/2009/1125/naas_wexford.html dead 8 January 2013 Naas & Wexford cards rescheduled 25 November 2009 25 November 2009 RTÉ
Reaction
My thoughts and prayers are with all those who have been affected and whose homes and livelihoods have been damaged. Queen Elizabeth IIhttp://www.royal.gov.uk/LatestNewsandDiary/Pressreleases/2009/TheQueensmessagefollowingtherecentfloodingacrossBr.aspx The Queen's message following the recent flooding across Britain Buckingham Palace 21 November 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091126031327/http://www.royal.gov.uk/LatestNewsandDiary/Pressreleases/2009/TheQueensmessagefollowingtherecentfloodingacrossBr.aspx 26 November 2009 live
What you've done in the last few days is tackle one of the greatest rainfalls we've seen in our country and you've done it with such superb organisation. Gordon Brown, British Prime Minister
We have been told this is a once-in-800-years event. John Gormley, Minister for the Environment of Ireland.Alison Chung http://news.sky.com/skynews/Home/World-News/Flooding-In-Ireland-Troops-Drafted-In-To-Help-Emergency-Services-Deal-With-Crisis/Article/200911315460612?lpos=World_News_First_World_News_Article_Teaser_Region_4&lid=ARTICLE_15460612_Flooding_In_Ireland%3A_Troops_Drafted_In_To_Help_Emergency_Services_Deal_With_Crisis Ireland Battles Worst Floods in Decades Sky News 21 November 2009 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20100130085213/http://news.sky.com/skynews/Home/World-News/Flooding-In-Ireland-Troops-Drafted-In-To-Help-Emergency-Services-Deal-With-Crisis/Article/200911315460612?lpos=World_News_First_World_News_Article_Teaser_Region_4&lid=ARTICLE_15460612_Flooding_In_Ireland%3A_Troops_Drafted_In_To_Help_Emergency_Services_Deal_With_Crisis 30 January 2010
On 21 November, British Prime Minister Gordon Brown visited Cumbria Police headquarters, near Penrith, to meet members of the emergency services before travelling to Cockermouth where he met people who had been evacuated from their homes. He pledged an additional £1,000,000 would be made available in aid for the affected areas when it was noted that the damages could well run into £50 million to £100 million mark.https://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/8371961.stm Prime minister Brown meets Cumbria flood victims BBC News Online 21 November 2009 21 November 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091122194103/http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/8371961.stm 22 November 2009 live During his visit, Gordon Brown ordered checks to be made on all 1,800 bridges in Cumbria. It was feared that Calva Bridge in Workington would also collapse. Bridge inspections will be carried out by the Highways Agency and the Department for Transport.https://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/8372775.stm Safety tests on bridges in Cumbria begin after flood BBC News Online 22 November 2009 22 November 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091123000452/http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/8372775.stm 23 November 2009 live
Cockermouth MP Tony Cunningham said that the buildings in Cockermouth may be broken, but the people were not. Following the death of the police officer, Cumbria Constabulary stated that over 10,000 people had signed a tribute on its Facebook page. The Queen praised emergency workers for the support they had provided.https://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/england/cumbria/8371628.stm Flood waters force 500 from homes BBC News Online 21 November 2009 21 November 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091123110658/http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/cumbria/8371628.stm 23 November 2009 live The ABI stated that the cost of the floods in Cumbria and Scotland could exceed £100,000,000.https://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/business/8373038.stm Floods claims in Cumbria and Scotland could top £100m BBC News Online 23 November 2009 22 November 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091123211734/http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/business/8373038.stm 23 November 2009 live
In Republic of Ireland, the Taoiseach Brian Cowen stated that the Government's priority was the provision of shelter and safe drinking water for those affected by the flooding.http://news.sky.com/skynews/Home/World-News/Flooding-In-Ireland-Troops-Drafted-In-To-Help-Emergency-Services-Deal-With-Crisis/Article/200911315460612?lpos=World_News_Article_Related_Content_Region_2&lid=ARTICLE_15460612_Flooding_In_Ireland%3A_Troops_Drafted_In_To_Help_Emergency_Services_Deal_With_Crisis https://archive.today/20130104153500/http://news.sky.com/skynews/Home/World-News/Flooding-In-Ireland-Troops-Drafted-In-To-Help-Emergency-Services-Deal-With-Crisis/Article/200911315460612?lpos=World_News_Article_Related_Content_Region_2&lid=ARTICLE_15460612_Flooding_In_Ireland:_Troops_Drafted_In_To_Help_Emergency_Services_Deal_With_Crisis dead 4 January 2013 Ireland Battles Worst Floods in Decades Sky News 21 November 2009 He chaired two sessions of the Emergency Response Co-Ordination Committee on the weekend following the outbreak of the floods.https://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/8373681.stm Irish flood 'worst for 800 years' 23 November 2009 27 November 2009 BBC https://web.archive.org/web/20091126163805/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/8373681.stm 26 November 2009 live
Brian Cowen embarked on the first of his visits to Ireland's flood-affected areas on 23 November when he visited Clonmel, Cork, Ennis and Ballinasloe.http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/breaking/2009/1123/breaking4.html?via=mr Cowen visits flood areas as further rainfall predicted 23 November 2009 27 November 2009 The Irish Times The Taoiseach, taking a further half-day trip around Galway, Offaly, Roscommon and Westmeath to inspect flood-affected regions on 26 November, was confronted by the angry residents of Athlone who said he was using their plight as a "publicity stunt". Cowen refused to visit some of the most badly flooded areas of Athlone despite being offered a pair of waders and even a rowing boat.
I have the waders in my hand. We had a boat there ready for him. And he goes to a house there with just puddles. Athlone resident expressing her disgust at Brian CowenHarry McGee http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/ireland/2009/1127/1224259546631.html?via=rel Cowen confronted by residents during visit 27 November 2009 27 November 2009 The Irish Times
On 27 November, the Prince of Wales (now Charles III) visited the areas of Cumbria affected by the flooding, where he expressed "nothing but the greatest possible sympathy" for the victims of the flooding.https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2009/nov/27/prince-charles-visits-cumbria-floods Prince Charles to visit flood hit Cumbria Wainwright Martin 27 November 2009 Guardian News and Media 27 November 2009 London https://web.archive.org/web/20091130172114/http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2009/nov/27/prince-charles-visits-cumbria-floods 30 November 2009 livehttps://www.google.com/hostednews/ukpress/article/ALeqM5hwQXp1aKPY1o8TB6FDmC52i7zY9w Charles praises flood hit county 27 November 2009 United Kingdom Press Association 27 November 2009 LondonJune 2024 medicmedic
On 21 December, President Mary McAleese embarked on a two-day visit of flooded areas, praising the "utterly selfless" acts of those who were assisting.http://www.rte.ie/news/2009/1221/weather1.html Response to Cork floods selfless – McAleese 21 December 2009 10 December 2010 RTÉ
Aftermath of UK floods
2009 Workington floods
As a result of the loss of all road and footbridges in Workington, it was announced that a new temporary railway station, Workington North, would be built on waste land leased for two years from Allerdale Council.https://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/england/cumbria/8375623.stm Cumbria poised for more flooding BBC News Online 24 November 2009 24 November 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091127073126/http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/cumbria/8375623.stm 27 November 2009 live The station opened on 30 November with services provided by Northern Rail.http://www.networkrailmediacentre.co.uk/content/detail.aspx?ReleaseID=4831&NewsAreaID=2&SearchCategoryID=5 NETWORK RAIL TO BUILD NEW TEMPORARY STATION TO HELP WORKINGTON FLOOD VICTIMS Network Rail 24 November 2009 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20110929042128/http://www.networkrailmediacentre.co.uk/content/detail.aspx?ReleaseID=4831&NewsAreaID=2&SearchCategoryID=5 29 September 2011 https://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/england/cumbria/8385635.stm Workington gets new rail station after Cumbria flood BBC News Online 30 November 2009 7 December 2009 Colette Hume https://web.archive.org/web/20091202083151/http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/cumbria/8385635.stm 2 December 2009 live and remained open for a year.
Construction work began in late November on Barker Crossing, a temporary footbridge, constructed by the British Army's Corps of Royal Engineers involving over two hundred soldiers. The bridge was expected to take ten days to complete. It was constructed to provide a link across the River Derwent after the Northside Bridge collapsed and the Calva Bridge was condemned.https://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/8375580.stm Cumbria on fresh flood alert as heavy rain returns BBC News Online 24 November 2009 25 November 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091125185804/http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/8375580.stm 25 November 2009 live The replacement bridge is 52 m ft long, and weighs about 110 t LT 0. It was prefabricated at Halton Camp, near Halton-with-Aughton and was erected on-site in early December.https://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/england/lancashire/8384180.stm Bridge for flooded town under way BBC News Online 28 November 2009 28 November 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091201070803/http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/lancashire/8384180.stm 1 December 2009 live The bridge was opened to pedestrians on 7 December 2009.https://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/cumbria/8398538.stm Flooded Workington united by new army-built bridge BBC News Online 7 December 2009 7 December 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091213063919/http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/cumbria/8398538.stm 13 December 2009 live
On 26 November, three vehicles were observed driving over the closed Calva Bridge, Workington. The bridge had been closed by the use of temporary barriers. As a result of the incident, more substantial barriers were installed to prevent vehicles accessing the bridge.https://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/england/cumbria/8381395.stm Motorists cross flood-hit bridge BBC News Online 26 November 2009 26 November 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20091129033528/http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/cumbria/8381395.stm 29 November 2009 live
Hundreds of mourners attended the funeral of PC Bill Barker in Egremont on 27 November 2009. Barker died after the collapse of a bridge in Workington.https://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/england/cumbria/8382259.stm Funeral for Cumbria floods police officer 27 November 2009 BBC 27 November 2009 London https://web.archive.org/web/20091130054524/http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/cumbria/8382259.stm 30 November 2009 live
In December 2009, Tesco built a new temporary store in north Workington. People living in that part of town were finding it difficult to access the main store, which lies south of the River Derwent.https://news.bbc.co.uk/local/cumbria/hi/people_and_places/newsid_8412000/8412668.stm New Tesco store opens in Workington BBC News Online 19 December 2009 14 December 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20100122222529/http://news.bbc.co.uk/local/cumbria/hi/people_and_places/newsid_8412000/8412668.stm 22 January 2010 live
On 22 October 2012, Princess Anne opened the new permanent road bridge on the site of the original Northside Bridge almost three years after its collapse. There had been calls to name the new bridge after PC Bill Barker however after the Town Council ran a local poll it was discovered that the residents would rather have it reverted to the old bridge's name, Northside Bridge. The final decision was then taken to PC Barker's widow who let the people of Workington decide.http://www.newsandstar.co.uk/new-workington-road-bridge-will-keep-old-name-1.930471 https://archive.today/20131023125433/http://www.newsandstar.co.uk/new-workington-road-bridge-will-keep-old-name-1.930471 dead 2013-10-23 New Workington road bridge will keep old name News & Star
Relief effort in Ireland
An initial emergency relief fund of €10 million plus an extra €2 million especially for farmers was announced by the Irish government on the afternoon of 24 November.http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/breaking/2009/1124/breaking9.htm €12m flood relief fund unveiled 24 November 2009 27 November 2009 The Irish Times In Ireland's Budget 2010, delivered by Minister for Finance Brian Lenihan on 9 December 2009, a further minimum amount of at least €70 million was put towards those affected by the floods and to the prevention of similar disasters in future.http://www.rte.ie/news/2009/1209/budget2010_main.html Budget 2010 cuts €4bn in public spending 9 December 2009 11 December 2009 RTÉ https://web.archive.org/web/20091214132216/http://www.rte.ie/news/2009/1209/budget2010_main.html 14 December 2009 dead
The Irish Red Cross stated that it expected to raise €1 million for survivors of the flooding and that it was starting to take applications for assistance from them on 12 December 2009.http://www.rte.ie/news/2009/1212/weather.html IRC accepts flood assistance requests 12 December 2009 12 December 2009 RTÉ https://web.archive.org/web/20091214171722/http://www.rte.ie/news/2009/1212/weather.html 14 December 2009 livehttp://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/breaking/2009/1212/breaking3.htm Red Cross accepts flood requests 12 December 2009 12 December 2009 The Irish Times The organisation announced it had reached this total on 10 January 2010.http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/breaking/2010/0110/breaking9.htm Red Cross raises €1million in flood appeal 10 January 2010 10 January 2010 The Irish Times The Society of Saint Vincent de Paul had two warehouses in Galway to collect aid for survivors.http://www.advertiser.ie/galway/article/19674 St Vincent de Paul open 'full to brim' warehouses for flood victims 3 December 2009 18 December 2009 Galway Advertiser The Cork Flood Appeal Benefit Night was one fund-raising event which was held on 15 December 2009.http://www.hotpress.com/The%20Marvels/news/CORK-FLOOD-APPEAL-BENEFIT-NIGHT/6099471.html Cork Flood Appeal Benefit Night 15 December 2009 18 December 2009 Hot Press https://web.archive.org/web/20091219184420/http://www.hotpress.com/The%20Marvels/news/CORK-FLOOD-APPEAL-BENEFIT-NIGHT/6099471.html 19 December 2009 live Home Athlone was another event held on 21 December 2009.http://www.hotpress.com/Andrew%20Maxwell/news/Gig-to-aid-Athlone-flood-victims/6099639.html Gig to aid Athlone flood victims 16 December 2009 18 December 2009 Hot Press
See also
List of natural disasters in Britain and Ireland
UK rainfall records
February 2009 Great Britain and Ireland snowfall
Climate of the United Kingdom, Climate of Europe
Effects of global warming, Physical impacts of climate change
Global storm activity of 2009, Global storm activity of 2010
Winter of 2009–2010 in Europe
2009 Workington floods
References
External links
Severe flooding hits Cumbria, England
Video of the Camerton Bridge collapsing (YouTube)
Article on the heavy rainfall on 19 November 2009 by Met Éireann
A round-up of the counties most severely hit by the flooding—The Irish Times
Gallery: Flooding Images at RTÉ
Video of flooded Stock Ghyll waterfall in Ambleside (YouTube)
Category:2009 floods in Europe
Category:2009 disasters in Ireland
Category:2009 in the Isle of Man
Category:2000s floods in the United Kingdom
Category:2009 disasters in the United Kingdom
Category:Meteorological events in 2009
Category:Environment of the Isle of Man
2009
2009
Category:Water in the Isle of Man
Category:November 2009 in Europe
Category:December 2009 in Europe
Category:November 2009 in the United Kingdom
Category:December 2009 in the United Kingdom