Thames Water: Islington flood was caused by burst pipe, bosses confirm

A flash flood that brought chaos to north London was caused by a burst pipe, Thames Water chiefs have confirmed.

Thousands of gallons of water flooded streets in Finsbury Park, trapping a pensioner, as a hosepipe ban was enforced elsewhere in baking Britain.

Two adults and two children were helped to safety after roads in Islington were left several feet under water due to a burst water main.

The 36-inch pipe burst causing flooding up to a depth of around three feet and two sinkholes, the fire service said, while around 50 properties were damaged by flood water.

A spokesman for Thames Water said yesterday (Monday, August 8): “We’re sorry to customers experiencing lower pressure than normal or no water this morning due to a burst pipe.

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

He added: “We’re doing all we can to get things back to normal as quickly as possible and we’re proactively 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.”

Ten fire engines and around 70 firefighters tackled flooding in Hornsey Road, between Holloway Road and Finsbury Park.

Multiple roads were closed and people were urged to avoid the area.

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

"There is severe congestion in the area and multiple road closures are expected to be in place for some time whilst our partners work to carry out repairs.

“People are urged to avoid the area.”

He added: "Firefighters used flood barriers to divert water and assisted two adults and two children to safety. There were no reports of any injuries."

A fire service spokesperson said the brigade was called at 7.01am and the incident was over for firefighters by 12.01pm.

Fire crews from Holloway, Islington, Kentish Town, Stoke Newington and surrounding fire stations attended the scene.