Flooding - Stratford

Six fire engines and around 40 firefighters were called to flooding in the area around Warton Road in Stratford. 

Water from the canal caused flooding which affected an area of around 2500 square metres. A 50-metre cordon was put in place as a precaution. There were no reports of any injuries. 

Station Commander Tom Ronan, who was at the scene, said: "Flooding from the canal affected a large area around Warton Road. There are road closures which are expected to be in place for some time and we urge people to avoid the area. 

"Firefighters worked hard to divert flood water and the water level has now subsided in all affected areas. No residents had to be evacuated from properties."

The Brigade was called at 1251 and the incident was over for firefighters by 1635. Fire crews from Stratford, Leyton, East Ham, Millwall and surrounding fire stations attended the scene. 

What to do when there is a flood

• Be alert – listen for weather warnings in your area. You can also check your flood risk online.
• Prepare a flood kit or grab bag. This should contain essentials in case you have to leave your home. Learn more about grab bags.
• Protect your property. You can use sandbags to limit water flow and if possible, move belongings to a higher level.
• Look out for your neighbours. Make sure they know what to do, especially if they are vulnerable.
• If your property becomes flooded avoid walking through flood waters. Six inches of fast flowing water can knock over an adult.
• Vehicles can quickly become unstable in moving water. Avoid driving into flooded water or a flooded area.

The Brigade has a range of equipment which can be used to help rescue people trapped by flood water, pump water away and protect properties.

Fire rescue units are equipped with water rescue equipment such as inflatable rescue boats and the Brigade has specialist flood response kits, each containing rigid flood rescue boats and paddles and rigid floating pontoons, and flood barriers. They also contain protective dry suits and boots to be worn by fire crews when rescuing people from flooded areas.