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Miguel will be undertaking research at the British Geological Survey (BGS), under the supervision Dr. Andy Barkwith, to develop the understanding, expertise and tools required to reduce the impact of groundwater-induced flood events. These events are long-lasting in nature and can have serious regional socio-economic impacts. For example the Somerset, UK, 2013-14 flood event cost the region £200m in lost tourism, cut-off communities and impacted on the UK’s food security.
This research will build on current research by the BGS to create a suite of modelling tools that link surface water flow models with groundwater models and apply these to regions with a high groundwater-flood vulnerability. Such models will be used to test the sensitivity of flooding and flood-recession in catchments to changes in climate and land-use. They will also be used to test multiple flood alleviation schemes. With little expense or intrusion they will be a key tool for use in flood reduction and risk management schemes both in the UK and internationally. This research will couple data and models using the knowledge and expertise of leading researchers within BGS. This research is highly aligned with the BGS 2019-23 strategy and that of UKRI, underpinning the UK ability to improve resilience and recovery from natural hazards, and protect economic growth, life and livelihoods.