Dozens of people were rescued by firefighters after a burst water main caused severe flooding in Islington, north London, on Tuesday afternoon. The London Fire Brigade (LFB) reported that approximately 50 people and three dogs were rescued using inflatable boats, with a further 50 evacuated from their properties. The flooding was caused by a burst 36-inch water main on Caledonian Road.
Six fire engines and dozens of firefighters, along with two specialist fire and rescue units equipped with inflatable boats, pumping equipment, and flood kits, were called to the scene at around 1.45pm. Crews from Dowgate, Euston, Soho, and surrounding fire stations attended, with the area between Caledonian Road and Twyford Street to the junction of Thornhill Bridge Wharf and Caledonian Road particularly badly affected.
Thames Water confirmed that customers in N1, N7, WC1X, and EC1R postcodes experienced low water pressure or no water. By 6.30pm, they had successfully isolated the damaged section of pipe, stabilising the network and restoring water supply to the wider area. At 8.45pm, they confirmed that all valve operations had been completed, with water returning to all affected customers. However, electricity to local residents was temporarily switched off for safety reasons, with Thames Water stating they would carry out thorough safety testing before restoring power.
Islington Council staff supported the emergency services. Cllr Una O’Halloran, Leader of Islington Council, expressed sympathy for those affected and called on Thames Water to manage the situation effectively. Emily Thornberry, MP for Islington South & Finsbury, criticised Thames Water’s “mismanagement” and demanded proper support for residents and businesses. A respite centre for affected residents remains open at Islington Tennis Centre Market.
