Since the dawn of civilisation human society has been shaped by its interaction with water—whether too much or too little. Indeed, water is one of the powerful forces of nature that have formed the planet on which we live. Floods are not new—they continually make news because of both tragic effects on individuals and acts of heroism in the emergency. The impact of floods on people can be dramatic even if there are no fatalities; pictures of rescue make good television material with stories told of bravery and fortunate escapes. However, the aftermath of a flood is distressing with personal.
