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The Great Sheffield Flood was a major disaster that happened in Sheffield, South Yorkshire, England on 11 March 1864. It began when the Dale Dyke Dam burst and released a large wave of water into the Loxley Valley and the city of Sheffield.
The flood was caused by the failure of the Dale Dyke Dam. The dam was being filled for the first time when a crack was seen in the embankment. Soon after, the dam wall broke and millions of gallons of water escaped.
The water rushed down the River Loxley valley. It destroyed homes, factories, farms and bridges in places like Bradfield, Loxley and Malin Bridge. The water then reached the River Don and caused damage through central Sheffield.
More than 250 people died, and thousands were left without homes. It was one of the worst flooding disasters in British history.
The flood destroyed:
Many buildings were washed away completely. Fields and farmland were ruined by mud and debris.
A public inquiry was held after the disaster. It found problems with the design and building of the dam.
The Sheffield Waterworks Company had to pay compensation to victims and families. New safety rules were later made for building reservoirs and dams.
The Great Sheffield Flood is still remembered today. There are plaques, memorials and information boards in the Loxley Valley and in Sheffield. The disaster is an important part of the city’s history.