'Self-Inflicted' UK Flooding Could Be Planners' Fault

Scientists have predicted at least two unusually high tidal events will hit the United Kingdom before the end of the summer, and the resulting effects on several low-lying areas are feared to be catastrophic.

The scientists are also warning that haphazard floodplain development without planning for varying environmental conditions is posing a significant threat to floodplain inhabitants, calling the predicted destruction "self-inflicted".

"Speaking at a press conference in London, the researchers said that low-lying areas such as Hull, where one-quarter of the population lives on the flood plain, would suffer badly in the event of a severe weather combination."

"The scientists are confident that the risks can be managed, given the proper investment. The decision to build in low-lying places must be accompanied by careful, thorough planning to avoid devastating losses."