The Lynmouth Flood of 1952: A Village's Resilience
The Tragedy Unfolds
On the night of August 15, 1952, Lynmouth was struck by a catastrophic flood resulting from unprecedented rainfall over Exmoor. The deluge caused the East and West Lyn rivers to overflow, leading to the destruction of homes, bridges, and the loss of 34 lives. This event stands as one of the UK’s most severe natural disasters.
Memorialising the Past
In the aftermath, the community came together to rebuild and remember. The Lynmouth Flood Memorial Hall was established to honor those affected and to educate future generations. Located opposite the harbor, the hall offers a poignant glimpse into the village’s history and resilience.
Visiting the Memorial Hall
The Lynmouth Flood Memorial Hall features a scale model of pre-flood Lynmouth, photographs, and personal accounts that narrate the events of that fateful night. It’s a place of reflection and learning, open to all who wish to understand the impact of the 1952 flood.
A Testament to Strength
Lynmouth’s journey from devastation to recovery exemplifies the strength and unity of its community. The Memorial Hall not only commemorates the past but also inspires visitors with stories of courage and perseverance.
What Caused the Lynmouth Flood?
On the night of 15–16 August 1952, nearly 229mm (9 inches) of torrential rain fell over Exmoor within 24 hours. The saturated moorland couldn’t absorb any more, sending unprecedented volumes of water racing toward the valley below.
Exmoor’s Steep Valleys and Surging Rivers
The landscape around Lynmouth is naturally steep, with the East and West Lyn Rivers acting as channels for rainwater. These river catchments became funnels, amplifying the water’s speed and force. Debris blocked bridges and culverts, causing sudden breaches and waves of destruction.
Infrastructure That Couldn’t Cope
The River Lyn had been culverted beneath the town to create more usable space. But in 1952, these man-made channels clogged with debris. When they burst, floodwaters surged through Lynmouth’s streets, destroying over 100 buildings, sweeping away 28 bridges, and claiming 34 lives.
A Testament to Strength
Lynmouth’s journey from devastation to recovery exemplifies the strength and unity of its community. The Lynmouth Memorial Hall not only commemorates the past but also inspires visitors with stories of courage and perseverance.
