Flood warnings have been issued for large areas of south-west London and parts of the city’s east. Further west, there are several areas upstream of the Thames where water levels are rising, putting the capital at risk of flooding.
On Friday (February 9), London Fire Brigades had to deal with flooding in Stratford where a canal bank burst. No injuries were reported, but 40 firefighters worked to divert floodwaters on Wharton Road.
The Environment Agency says the areas currently most at risk are west London, specifically Staines and Walton, which are home to several reservoirs. The warning includes the downstream waterway, which passes through Teddington and Richmond, passes through Brentford and Hammersmith and ends at Putney Bridge.
read more: Police continue to search ‘fast flowing’ River Thames for Abdul Ezedi after discovering two bodies
In the east, flood warnings have also been issued for the River Thames from Woolwich to Dartford, with water potentially flowing towards Stamford-le-Hope.
Further north-east of Chigwell, a flood warning is also in place for the River Roding, which runs from Woodford Green through Chigwell, past Loughton and towards Mt Zeydon.
What does a flood warning mean?
The government said a flood warning means flooding is possible and people need to prepare now. These are issued when forecasts indicate there is a possibility of flooding from rivers, storm surges, storm surges or high winds at sea. The Environment Agency usually issues flood warnings between two and 12 hours before a flood, and where possible during waking hours.
During a flood warning, only fields, parks, car parks, small roads and agricultural land are usually at risk. London Fire Brigade has sent out some advice to help people prepare following the flooding in Stratford. They read:
- Stay alert – listen to weather warnings in your area. You can also check your flood risk online.
- Prepare a flood kit or grab bag. This should include essentials in case you need to leave your home. Click here for more information about grab bags.
- Please have your insurance card and medication ready
- Protect your property. You can use sandbags to restrict water flow and move your belongings to a higher level if possible.
- Please be aware of your neighbors. Help them understand what to do, especially if they are vulnerable.
- If your property floods, avoid walking through flood water. 6 inches of fast water flow can overwhelm an adult.
- Vehicles can quickly become unstable in moving water. Avoid driving through flooded water or flooded areas.
Flood Warnings and Severe Flood Alerts are issued when more severe flooding is expected, and later when life is at risk. Thankfully, no part of London is under more than a flood warning, but that doesn’t mean you should ignore it. Always check flood risks online.
In an emergency, you can call the fire brigade for help. They are equipped with a range of specialized equipment, including rubber boats, floating pontoons and sea walls, to rescue people trapped in flood waters, pump water and protect property.
We’ll send you the biggest news from across London straight to your inbox. Sign up to MyLondon’s The 12 HERE for the 12 biggest stories every day.