This is an update on Thames Path weather conditions following yesterday’s Storm Ciara, one of Britain’s worst storms in years. The Environment Agency has issued a number of warnings and alerts. Incredibly, there is only one on the Thames, although a number of tributaries have alerts.
The one alert in place is between Putney and Teddington which is a result of spring surge tides. They state: “We believe there is a possibility of flooding for Putney Embankment (SW15), Chiswick Mall and Strand on the Green (W4), Thames Bank at Mortlake (SW14), Ranelagh Drive (TW1), Friars Lane and Water Lane (TW9), Riverside and The Embankment at Twickenham, and the Towpath below Teddington Lock. Flooding of properties is not expected. Astronomical tide levels are rising. The river flow at Teddington Weir is normal for this time of year at 135 cubic metres per second and is rising. We anticipate the flows to remain high for the next five days.”
The Thames Barrier is scheduled to close today as high tides threaten the city following a new moon.
The tributaries listed (and where they meet the Thames) are
- River Coln (Lechlade)
- River Loddon (Shiplake)
- Chertsey Bourne (Shepperton)
Rail services are severely disrupted. Great Western Railway is experiencing delays between Swindon and Gloucester, Reading and Newbury, and alterations between London and Paddington as trees have fallen on tracks or disrupted power supplies.
As the picture alongside shows, the Thames Path area seems to have got off lightly, with areas north and south being hit far worse.
Thames Path weather is forecast to improve over the next few days.
As always, stay safe and alert whilst walking the Thames.