Flash flood warning for 50,000 homes as residents to be given emergency advice
At least 50,000 basement flats are in danger if flooding in the capital, due to the climate change, London's Mayor Sadiq Khan has warned.
City Hall has reached out to thousands of London households warning them they are now at increased risk and given them advice on preparing for flash floods. The initiative is part of Climate Action Week. Sir Sadiq said: "The climate emergency is no longer a distant problem, but one that is increasingly reaching our doorsteps, which we saw up-close with the disastrous floods in summer 2021. As Mayor, I'm determined to build a better London for everyone – ensuring we are taking action to make our city resilient to the impacts of climate change, but also reducing our carbon emissions to ultimately tackle the crisis.
'While the likelihood of flooding remains low for most basement properties, I'm doing all I can to ensure that the people most at risk know what to do in the event of a flash flood, which could help to save lives.'
The risk assessment has shown that nearly half of London's hospitals, a quarter of rail stations and one in five schools, are at risk of flooding, and more than 50,000 homes.
The latest Environment Agency data shows more than half a million London homes and businesses at high or medium risk, with flash flooding believed to be the biggest risks facing the capital.
Flash floodings are life-threatening emergencies, with heavy rainfall landing on hard surfaces and overwhelming sewers, drains and nearby rivers.
London Fire Brigade's Assistant Commissioner, Pat Goulbourne, told the Evening Standard: "Climate change is evolving the challenges fire and rescue services face, and 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."
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