Holland Park residents rescued by boat after major overnight floods
Firefighters launch early morning rescue mission after major flooding in Holland Park.
Parts of west London woke to dramatic scenes overnight after a burst water main sent flood water coursing through streets around Holland Park Roundabout.
Six fire engines and around 40 firefighters were scrambled to the scene in the early hours of Wednesday morning (21 January), where flood levels reportedly reached up to one metre deep.
More than 50 homes and a hotel were affected across a one-mile stretch, with around 25 residents evacuated and taken to a nearby rest centre. No injuries have been reported.
Station Commander Kris Seymour, who was at the scene, said: “A burst 30-inch water main caused flooding up to 1-metre deep, affecting more than 50 homes and a hotel over a one-mile area.
“Firefighters used specialist equipment, including an inflatable rescue boat to evacuate affected residents and flood barriers to divert flood water, which has now subsided. We encourage people to avoid the area as road closures will likely be in place throughout the morning.”
London Fire Brigade crews from Hammersmith, Kensington, North Kensington, Fulham and neighbouring stations were dispatched, with Control Officers receiving 11 emergency calls linked to the incident. Firefighters declared the situation under control shortly after 5.20am.
Drivers are being advised to steer clear of the roundabout and surrounding roads while clean-up and assessments continue.
Residents can find official advice on dealing with flooding and property damage via the London Fire Brigade’s guidance pages.