The Lynmouth floods were caused by a combination of factors. On August 15th, 1952, a low-pressure system brought heavy rainfall to the area, which had already experienced heavy rainfall in the preceding weeks. This resulted in the rivers and streams in the area becoming swollen and overflowing.

Additionally, the landscape of the area, with its steep hills and valleys, meant that the water flowed down quickly and formed flash floods. The high tides and a storm surge in the Bristol Channel also contributed to the floods by preventing the floodwaters from entering the sea.

The final death toll was 34, and many buildings and homes were destroyed. The event prompted changes in the way flood warnings and response systems were managed in the UK.