Chaos in Wanstead as Families Trapped in 4-Foot Floodwater
Police have declared a major incident after several families with children became trapped in waist-deep, fast-flowing water at Charlie Browns roundabout in Wanstead. Torrential rain saw 45.9mm fall in just under two hours on Sunday afternoon, flooding the area.
London Fire Crews Rush In with Boats
Firefighters from across London have been deployed with rescue boats to save those stranded in the 4-foot-deep waters. Authorities say the flooding is severe and ongoing, with emergency services working around the clock.
Storms Cause Widespread Disruption
Biblical downpours thundered across Wanstead, triggering a power cut following a lightning strike. The deluge has crippled transport in east London, shutting roads and train stations.
Key Roads and Stations Shut Amid Flooding
- The M11 southbound between Junction 6 (M25) and Junction 4 (A406 North Circular) remains CLOSED due to flooding near Redbridge and Waterworks.
- Closures also affect links from the M25 (both directions) onto the M11 southbound. Drivers are advised to follow diversion signs marked ● Solid Black Circle.
- Transport chaos continues as eight London Underground stations and one Overground station have been closed:
- Covent Garden
- Edgware Road (Circle)
- Gants Hill
- Kennington
- North Greenwich
- Pudding Mill Lane
- Stepney Green
- Stockwell
- Surrey Quays (Overground)
Stay tuned for updates as emergency crews battle the rising waters across east London.