Case Study: Flooding in Brisbane Australia

1) Describe the causes of the flooding. Consider both the natural and human causes of the flood. (4 marks)

Flooding usually happens in coastal areas because coastal areas have high tides/storms that cause water levels to rise. The major cause of flooding in Australia is heavy rainfall. Other natural causes of flooding are hurricanes, storms and tsunamis. Human causes can be urbanization and mining, deforestation, overgrazing, and poor water management. Another major reason for flooding can be pollution and infrastructure.  

2) Describe the social (impact on people), economic (money), environmental impacts of the floods. (12 marks)

Social impact:

- loss of lives/injuries

- loss of property, leaving many people homeless

- widespread of diseases and infections such as water borne diseases

- drainage systems disrupted

Economic impact:

- repairs to damaged buildings, homes and infrastructure that will cost

- relief and recovery costs

- purchasing and production power will decrease

- business will slow down, affecting their income

Environmental impact:

- habitats and forests are destroyed; biodiversity destroyed

- soil erosion due to large amounts of water coming fast

- agriculture destroyed

- contaminated water; chemical substances may pollute the water

3) How is the government of Queensland preparing for future potential floods? (4 marks)

- to install an early warning alert service

- 'mud army,' volunteers that give assistance to flood victims

- plans to increase buildings' resilience to floods

- 'ready for summer' campaign that provides awareness on how to minimize casualties and risks to people and property

The government is informing the public of strategies in case of a flood. Homes are being built now with sturdier frames and higher floors so water does not seep in so easily.