Water Resource Associates
A network of consultants in water resources, water quality, hydrology, hydrogeology and flooding.
Review of Flooding in the Thames Valley
Provision of expert support in river hydraulics and flood hydrology to The Upstream Group [TUG] during the deliberations of the Flood Risk Action Group [FRAG] for Hurley to Wraysbury, set up by the Environment Agency, after the January-2003 floods.
Background
The review focused on developing an understanding of the characteristics of the January 2003 flooding and the operational management of the river by lock-keepers and other Environment Agency staff. A comparison was made with other historically significant floods with the aim of highlighting and explaining differences. A review was also made of flood frequency and the process of mapping and classifying flood risk in the insurance business.
An assessment was made of the impact of recent flood defence works at Cookham, North Maidenhead and the Jubilee flood relief scheme, which comprises a new channel between Maidenhead and Windsor.
Thames catchment
Rainfall across the Thames catchment - December 2002
Scope of work by Water Resource Associates Ltd
WRA prepared an assessment report of the Thames flooding, advising TUG, and participating in the preparation of a Mechanisms of Flooding report, published by the FRAG. WRA also prepared a flood risk insurance package to help TUG members in acquiring property insurance. This document was later adopted by the Environment Agency. The assignment included public presentations, communication with the press, and participation in FRAG open days and EA meetings.
Impact of Changing Climate on Flood Frequency
Results
Hydraulic and construction aspects of the new Jubilee scheme were reviewed and overall flood capacity was found to be significantly lower than original design. Many TUG members have since been able to insure their properties, as a result of WRA reports, and the process provided the necessary incentive for the Environment Agency to review flood defence options for the Lower Thames, and the flood forecasting programme of work.