The London Fire Brigade (LFB) have responded to an average of more than 8,250 flooding-related incidents a year over the last four years
All Londoners are being urged to make sure they are prepared for the increasing risk of flooding as the number of emergencies and extreme weather incidents impacting all corners of the capital. While more heavy rain is being forecast across London this week the London Fire Brigade (LFB) is warning of the ‘year-round’ dangers posed by flooding and is calling on people to spending just an hour to make sure none of us are caught out.
Floods in London can stem from burst water mains, roof and plumbing failures, and in bad weather many are caused by flash floods triggered by heavy rainfall. In the 10 years prior to 2024, LFB data shows there’s been a rise in flood incidents, an increase of nearly a third (31%), with firefighters responding to an average of more than 8,250 flooding-related incidents a year over the last four years.
There are three key steps the LFB is urging Londoners to take now. The first is to sign up for flood alerts as finding out early can buy crucial extra time to keep safe and protect your property. Secondly, create a flood plan so you and your family know what to do before an emergency hits – include details on where important documents are stored (always keep them in a waterproof place), know how to switch off electricity and water supplies.
Finally, the LFB wants everyone to prepare a flood kit or emergency grab bag. This should include items that you would need if you had to leave your home. This could include medication, important documents e.g. (insurance documents), clothes and toiletries.
LFB Assistant Commissioner for Operational Resilience and Control, Patrick Goulbourne said: “We’re calling on Londoners to be ready for the extreme weather we’re experiencing on an increasingly regular basis. Flooding can occur year-round, not just in winter, and its impact on property and infrastructure can be severe.
“If your home or business is at immediate risk of flooding, turn off the gas, electricity, and water before floodwaters enter your home. And always stay away from any floodwater outside as it may conceal dangerous currents or debris. The Brigade is fully prepared to respond to flood emergencies with both rescue equipment (such as inflatable boats) and pumping equipment. But prevention and awareness are key to minimising disruption, safeguarding property and keeping people safe.”
The LFB’s flood response capabilities include Fire Rescue Units equipped with inflatable boats, pumping equipment and four specialist flood kits. These kits contain rigid rescue boats, floating pontoons which can be used to make bridges and walkways to rescue people. They also contain protective dry suits and boots to be worn by fire crews when rescuing people from flooded areas.
In September 2024, flash flooding prompted approximately 350 emergency calls, with crews called to Ruislip, Uxbridge, Wimbledon, and Carshalton. Firefighters rescued individuals trapped in vehicles, assisted residents evacuating their homes, and responded to flooding in underground stations, roads, and commercial properties. In July 2021, the Brigade’s Control officers received 1000 flooding-related calls after 47.8mm of rain fell in a 24-hour period in Kew, compared to the monthly average monthly of 41mm.
Firefighter call outs to London flooding incidents
2014
2015
2016
2017
2018
2019
2020
2021
2022
2023
2024
Total
6,219
6,343
7,036
6,618
8,077
6,886
6,688
8,869
8,110
7,869
8,176
What to do when floods are forecast
If flooding is forecast in your area there are steps you can take to be prepared:
- Save the Floodline number to your phone. You will need to call them to report flooding in your area, or for advice if your home is flooded. Call Floodline on 0345 988 1188.
- Create a list of important contact details such as your insurance and utility companies and insurance providers.
- You can download a template for your list of contacts
- Make sure you know how to turn off your gas, water and electrical supplies in an emergency
- Look out for your neighbours. If you have vulnerable neighbours, make sure they know what they need to do in an emergency.
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