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Flash-flood warning issued for London's basements

Tony Grew
BBC News
Getty Images A silver car drives through water on the road in suburban London, creating a large splash. Getty Images
London has been hit by flash flooding in recent years

More than 50,000 basement properties are at increased risk of floods due to climate change, the Mayor of London Sir Sadiq Khan has warned.

The capital has seen the impact of the climate emergency first-hand with soaring temperatures and flash floods in recent years.

In July 2021, severe flooding left some Londoners temporarily homeless as thousands of properties were filled with storm water and sewage after more than a month's rain fell in two hours.

City Hall is sending guidance on flash flooding to households in basement properties, with advice on how to prepare for and deal with a flash flood.

Getty Images A young man jumps over a large puddle in the road. It is raining. Other pedestrians, a London bus and a black taxi are in the background. Getty Images
Sudden torrential rain, often in summer, can cause basements to flood
A fire officer in his kit giving an interview to the media at the scene of a fire. There are fire trucks parked in the background.
London Fire Brigade's Pat Goulbourne says flooding can cause significant damage to property

The warning comes as temperatures in London are due to soar to as high as 34C in the coming days.

Analysis from City Hall has found that flood risk could affect nearly half of London's hospitals, a quarter of railway stations and one in five schools.

The latest Environment Agency data shows more than half a million London homes and businesses at high or medium risk.

Flash flooding can happen when very heavy rain falls on hard surfaces, overwhelming drainage and sewers - it can happen quickly and without warning.

City Hall said while the likelihood of flooding remained low for most basement properties, where it does occur the "damage and risk to life can be serious".

London Fire Brigade assistant commissioner Pat Goulbourne said that climate change was "evolving the challenges fire and rescue services face".

He added: "It is important to have the plans in place to ensure that London is more resilient to the extreme weather we are experiencing on an increasingly regular basis.

"Heavy rain and urban flooding can cause significant damage to property and infrastructure; being prepared will help minimise this threat and is vital to the wellbeing of this city and all Londoners."

Getty Images A council worker in a high viz jackets tries to tackle a flooded road in London. He is using his broom to try to clear a drain. Cars and buses are driving past through the flood waters. Getty Images
Londoners are being urged to be aware of the risk of flooding

A leaflet will be distributed to at-risk properties across London offering guidance to residents about how to prepare for and deal with a flood.

People are being advised to sign up to receive weather warnings through the Met Office alert email, check drains in and around the home are clear, and ensure they are aware how to turn off water, gas and electricity supplies.

In addition, they are advised to prepare a "flood kit" of important items in case they have to evacuate their homes, containing warm clothing, a phone charger, any vital medication and important documents, such as proof of insurance.

The leaflet also shares the steps to follow if a flood occurs.

Kieron Williams, London Councils executive member for transport and environment, said: "The 2021 floods in London were devastating, and it's vital that residents across the city are aware of flood risks to help prevent such widespread disruption and loss in the future."

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