The most important flood defence in London is the Thames Barrier. The Thames Barrier is a series of 10 movable gates that can be closed to prevent tidal surges from entering the River Thames. The Thames Barrier was built in the 1980s, and it has been closed over 200 times since then.
In addition to the Thames Barrier, London also has a number of other flood defences in place. These include:
- River walls and embankments: River walls and embankments are built along the banks of the River Thames and other rivers in London. These walls and embankments help to prevent river water from flooding the land behind them.
- Flood gates: Flood gates are installed at the mouths of rivers and canals in London. These gates can be closed to prevent floodwater from entering the city.
- Pumping stations: Pumping stations are used to remove floodwater from low-lying areas in London.
These flood defences have been very effective in protecting London from flooding. However, climate change is causing sea levels to rise, which is increasing the risk of flooding in London. The Environment Agency is working to improve London's flood defences, and it is also working to raise awareness of the risks of flooding and how to prepare for a flood.
Here are some tips for how to prepare for a flood:
- Make a flood plan. This plan should include a list of important documents and belongings that you would need to evacuate with. It should also include a plan for how you would communicate with your family and friends in the event of a flood.
- Sign up for flood warnings. The Environment Agency and other organizations provide flood warnings to help people prepare for and respond to floods.
- Be aware of your flood risk. The Environment Agency has a flood risk map that shows the areas of England that are at risk of flooding. You can use this map to find out if your home is at risk of flooding.
- Take steps to reduce your flood risk. There are a number of things you can do to reduce your flood risk, such as:
- Install flood barriers. Flood barriers can help to protect your home from flooding.
- Raise your home. If your home is at risk of flooding, you may be able to raise it to make it less vulnerable to flooding.
- Plant trees. Trees can help to absorb floodwater and reduce the risk of flooding.
By following these tips, you can help to protect yourself and your home from flooding.