Cllr Scott Patient 11 February 2021

Living in a climate emergency

Living in a climate emergency image

On 9 February 2020, Storm Ciara caused Calderdale’s fourth major flood in eight years. More than a third of homes and over 50% of businesses that flooded in England last winter were in the Calder Valley. Storm Ciara’s damage across 10 miles of Calderdale was another harsh reminder of the local impact of the global climate crisis.

Since then we’ve faced 16 flood alerts/warnings. Devastating flooding on Boxing Day 2015 affected more than 2,500 residents and 1,250 businesses. This January, Storm Christoph brought 108mm of rain – matching Storm Ciara – but over 48 hours rather than 18. A near miss.

We are living with climate change in the form of frequent extreme weather, constant flood risk, ongoing financial pressure and intense fear and distress throughout our communities.

Calderdale’s unique topography heightens this. Flood risk is embedded in our steep-sided valleys – the same landscape that we love, that makes our place distinctive. We’re determined to protect its beauty. Determined not to accept that harm from flooding and environmental damage are our reality forevermore.

Read the full feature for free here.

Photo: Phil Silverman / Shutterstock.com

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Digital and Automation Analyst

North Yorkshire Council
£38,220-£42,839
Are you passionate about improving digital services for everyone? Northallerton, North Yorkshire
Recuriter: North Yorkshire Council

Digital and Automation Analyst

North Yorkshire Council
£38,220-£42,839
Are you passionate about improving digital services for everyone? Harrogate, North Yorkshire
Recuriter: North Yorkshire Council

Highways Technical Assistant

North Yorkshire Council
£29,064 - £31,537 per annum
Would you like to be part of one of our friendly, welcoming Highways teams, who are proud to manage all aspects of the highway network? Boroughbridge, York
Recuriter: North Yorkshire Council

Highways Technical Assistant

North Yorkshire Council
£29,064 - £31,537 per annum
Would you like to be part of one of our friendly, welcoming Highways teams, who are proud to manage all aspects of the highway network? Whitby, North Yorkshire
Recuriter: North Yorkshire Council

Assistant Director Strategy & Community Regeneration

Newcastle City Council
£100,592 - £106,591 per annum
Newcastle is a city fast gaining a reputation for its innovation and progress. Newcastle, Newcastle Upon Tyne
Recuriter: Newcastle City Council
Linkedin Banner