The Environment Agency has issued flood alerts for large parts of south London, with warnings that low lying land and properties with basements may be affected.

Large parts of south London and Surrey have been placed under the flood alert by the Environment Agency with warnings to “be prepared.”

The following areas are affected:

  • Caterham Bourne
  • Coulsdon Bourne
  • Beddington
  • Carshalton
  • Coulsdon
  • Kenley
  • Purley
  • South Croydon
  • Whyteleafe
  • Bromley
  • Bexley
  • Greenwich
  • Lewisham

This is following heavy rainfall over the winter months contributing to rising groundwater levels, with levels further increasing through February and March.

The Environment Agency has warned that properties with deep basements and low lying land in and around Purley and Caterham Bourne may experience flooding.

Flooding of properties, gardens and low lying land elsewhere is not expected.

Equipment has been installed by the Environment Agency on the Caterham Bourne in Kenley Bourne Park to monitor the flow and levels in this area.

Riparian owners are being reminded to keep clear sections of river flowing through their land whilst the flood alert is in place.

The situation is currently being monitored by the Environment Agency, with further updates expected later today.

What to do

Residents in affected areas are being advised to monitor local water levels and weather conditions whilst flood alerts are in place, and to act on their flood plans.

People are also advised to avoid using low lying footpaths or entering areas prone to flooding.