The Mayor of London, Sir Sadiq Khan, has issued a warning that over 50,000 basement properties are now more susceptible to flooding due to climate change.
London has been experiencing the consequences of the climate crisis, evidenced by rising temperatures and sudden flooding events in recent years.
In July 2021, severe flooding rendered many Londoners temporarily homeless, as storm water and sewage inundated thousands of properties after an equivalent of over a month’s worth of rainfall fell in just two hours.
To address this issue, City Hall is providing guidance on flash flooding to residents of basement properties, offering advice on how to prepare for and manage such emergencies.
This alert comes as temperatures in the capital are predicted to reach as high as 34C in the next few days.
Research conducted by City Hall indicates that nearly half of London’s hospitals, a quarter of its railway stations, and one in five schools could be impacted by flooding risks.
Recent data from the Environment Agency highlights that over half a million homes and businesses in London are deemed to be at high or medium risk of flooding.
Flash flooding occurs when heavy rainfall overwhelms drainage systems and sewers due to their rapid onset, often without prior warning.
City Hall noted that while the overall risk of flooding remains low for many basement properties, when it does happen, the potential for damage and life-threatening situations is significant.
Pat Goulbourne, assistant commissioner with the London Fire Brigade, commented that climate change is “changing the dynamics of the challenges faced by fire and rescue services.”
He emphasized, “It is essential to have plans in place to enhance London’s resilience to the increasingly frequent extreme weather events we are witnessing.”
He further remarked that heavy rainfall and urban flooding can lead to substantial damage to properties and infrastructure; hence, being prepared is crucial to mitigate these risks and ensure the well-being of all Londoners.
A leaflet will be sent to vulnerable properties throughout London, providing residents with information on how to prepare for and respond to flooding.
Residents are encouraged to subscribe to weather warnings via the Met Office alert email, ensure that drains around their homes are clear, and familiarize themselves with how to shut off their water, gas, and electricity supplies.
Moreover, they are advised to assemble a “flood kit” containing essential items such as warm clothing, a phone charger, vital medications, and important documents like proof of insurance, in case they need to evacuate.
The leaflet also outlines steps to follow in the event of a flood.
Kieron Williams, the London Councils executive member for transport and environment, stated, “The 2021 floods in London were catastrophic, and it is crucial for residents throughout the city to be informed about flood risks in order to prevent similar widespread disruptions and losses in the future.”
