'It was like a tsunami': Burst water main causes 4ft flood in London

‘It was like a tsunami’: Burst water main causes 4ft flood in London

Aug 08, 2022

A burst water main has caused flooding up to 4ft deep in London.

Emergency services were called to the scene in the northern borough of Islington just after 7am this morning, with ten fire engines and around 70 firefighters in place on Hornsey Road.

A member of staff at the Tollington Arms, in Hornsey Road, said “within minutes there was flooding like a tsunami”.

Liz Clutterbuck, 41, a vicar at Emmanuel Church, said some houses had water above the bottom of their doors.

“The Sobell Leisure Centre is flooded by several feet,” she said.

“I could see it at least 2ft high on the external exits in the car park. Water still seemed to be flowing fast an hour ago.”

A Thames Water spokesperson apologised to customers who are experiencing lower pressure than normal or have no water at all this morning.

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“Our engineers were quickly on the scene and have stopped the flow of water, which is now draining away,” the company said.

“We’re doing all we can to get things back to normal as quickly as possible and we’re pro-actively contacting everyone in the affected area who has pre-registered with us as having special requirements, such as being medically reliant on water, so we can make sure we give them the help and support they need.”

Residents told to move to a higher level

Station commander Matt Brown, who was at the scene, said: “Flood water is affecting Hornsey Road, Tollington Road and a leisure centre.

“There are multiple road closures in place while crews work to make the scene safe. People are urged to avoid the area.

“Firefighters are using flood barriers to divert water.

“If you are affected by flood water, if possible (and without putting yourself at risk) move to a higher level.”

Chris Dodsworth, a civil servant who lives in the area, described the situation as “quite stressful” and said water levels appear to be rising.

He said: “I woke up around 7:30 and realised I could hear the sound of running water outside which was obviously strange, especially given the weather recently.

“My first thought was that it had rained overnight but then I obviously glanced out the window and just saw that the whole street and connecting roads were utterly submerged.

“It’s so strange to be around so much water (especially in this time of drought)…what a day of contrast.”

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