Flooding is possible between Dartford and the Thames Barrier today (Sunday, November 7), the government's Flood Information Service have said.
Variable 'spring tides', which occur during full or new moons, and the closing of the Thames Barrier were both cited as contributing to possible flooding, for which the agency warned residents to "be prepared".
In a statement posted to the Flood Information Service website, a spokesperson said that the most likely time for flooding to occur would be in the two hours either side of 2.30pm on Sunday when high tide at the Thames Barrier was expected.
An accompanying graphic showed the areas of possible flooding on Sunday covering both banks of the Thames up to Plumstead, while further east the flood alert stretched into central Dartford according to the map.
"River levels are expected to be high as a result of spring tides and a closure of the Thames Barrier. Water will be maintained within the downstream network of flood defences, which include river walls, embankments and flood gates, however flooding of low lying footpaths and open spaces is possible for 1-2 hours around high tide," the Flood Information Service statement read.
"The forecast high tide at the Thames Barrier is at 14:30 on 07/11/21. We are closely monitoring the situation. Our incident response staff are out on the ground ensuring all flood gates are closed. Members of the public are advised to avoid floodwater and also to keep abreast of updates to the forecast as further Thames Barrier closures are possible. This message will be updated by 19:00 on 08/11/21, or as the situation changes," it added.
Greater and more frequent floods in the UK and London are expected as the climate crisis continues to worsen.
One study from the London School of Economics found earlier this year that "climate change is increasing the likelihood of heavy or intense rainfall in many parts of the UK, particularly in the winter months. This is leading to higher risks of river and surface water flooding..."
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