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Overnight Storms Cause Flooding and Disrupt TfL Services in London

Severe overnight storms on 23 June caused flooding across London, disrupting Heathrow Airport services, the Elizabeth Line, Heathrow Express, and London Tramlink. The London Fire Brigade responded to around 400 calls, including flood-related incidents and lightning-induced fires.

·2 min read
A car struggles through a flooded street surrounded by trees after a heavy rainstorm.

Severe Weather Impacts London Transport and Infrastructure

Thunderstorms and heavy rain overnight have led to widespread disruption across London, notably affecting Heathrow Airport and various transport networks.

The Elizabeth Line currently has no service between Heathrow Terminals 2 and 3 and Terminal 4 due to flooding caused by the intense downpour. Additionally, the Heathrow Express is operating a reduced service in both directions.

This disruption follows severe storms in the early hours of 23 June. The London Fire Brigade (LFB) reported responding to approximately 400 calls since midnight, with the majority related to flooding impacting homes and roads.

Firefighters also attended at least two house fires believed to have been ignited by lightning strikes during the storms.

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Flooding has further affected other transport services. On the London Tramlink network, services are suspended between Sandilands and Elmers End or Beckenham Junction due to floodwater on the tracks.

Earlier in the morning, Balham station was closed because of flooding but has since reopened.

London Fire Brigade Response

Assistant Commissioner Pat Goulbourne commented on the situation:

"It has been a very busy night for our Control Officers, firefighters and officers. Shortly after 04:00 BST, due to a large number of calls received by the Brigade.
Whilst the worst of the rain now seems to have passed, we continue to work through outstanding calls as well as receive new incidents as Londoners wake to see some of the damage caused by the storms overnight."

Residents and commuters are advised to stay updated on service statuses and safety information.

For more updates, listen to BBC Radio London on Sounds and follow BBC London on Facebook, X, and Instagram. Story ideas can be sent to hello.bbclondon@bbc.co.uk.

This article was sourced from bbc

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