Analysis during the recent storms shows that extreme water levels recorded in some locations in the Humber were significantly higher than previously thought.

The December 2013 storms highlighted the importance and vulnerability of flood defences around the Humber Estuary and across the UK. Analysis shows that extreme water levels recorded in some locations in the Humber were significantly higher than previously thought and we have been commissioned with CH2M to derive new extreme water levels throughout the estuary.

We have developed a bespoke, localised approach to deliver the appropriate levels of certainty for the Environment Agency. Building on modelling experience and physical process knowledge, improvements in technology and modelling programmes along with the latest best practice in multi-parameter joint probability analysis we will deliver a robust set of extreme water level data.

The results will be used as the basis for updated flood maps, overtopping impact assessment modelling, overtopping extents, breach hazard maps and National Flood Risk Assessment for the Humber estuary.