The Floods

I just wanted to add my own thoughts about the flooding crisis that has hit parts of the country over the last couple of weeks.
I can't begin to imagine what life must be like; it surely is the worst peact-time disaster to affect so many people.
No water and no power!
What does that mean?

• Unable to wash
• Unable to drink
• Baby feeds can't be made (you can't use bottled water for babies, because of the mineral content)
• Unable to cook
• Businesses can't function - many businesses are ruined
• The tourist trade decimated - hotels can't open without running water
• Disease is a distinct possibility; due to lack of hygiene facilities

There are so many stories about individual feats to help and save people and possessions, and it doesn't appear to be over yet. Even though the waters appear to be receding, the weather forecast is not positive, with more rain due, leading to further surges down the rivers.

Something has to be done, but what. Without building huge dams or walls to keep the waters at bay, which would spoil the aethsetic look of the countryside, there needs to be a concerted effort to design and develop flood defences that can withstand the pressures of these events.

Let's not forget the fire services, who have been doing a remarkable job, in many cases, where the officers homes have also been flooded. I think they call it the Blitz Spirit. Everyone has combined efforts to help each other, and try to keep morale high.

It has been reported that there will be no mains water for up to 2 weeks. So, bowsers, bottles and tankers have been drafted in to provide the supplies necessary for essential cooking, drinking and cleaning.

These are dire times, and my thoughts go out to everyone who has been affected.