Request ID: FOI-2874-2324 Date published: 08 December 2023
You asked
I am making this request for information under the Freedom of Information Act 2000.
Please detail how many London Underground stations have had to close due to flooding between 1 September 2018 and 31 August 2023.
Please detail which tube stations were closed in each month, and for how long each closure lasted.
We answered
TfL Ref: FOI-2874-2324 Thank you for your request which we received on 10 November 2023, asking how many London Underground stations have had to close due to flooding between 1 September 2018 and 31 August 2023. Your request has been considered in accordance with the requirements of the Freedom of Information Act and our information access policy. I can confirm that we hold the information you require.
Through our weather service provider, we have access to real time information and utilise the skills and knowledge of on call forecasters to mitigate and respond appropriately to weather events. Although it is not always possible to accurately predict the exact location or stations that will be affected, we deploy resources and equipment in advance to minimise anticipated disruption to customers wherever possible. This includes additional staffing, pumps and cleaning materials, which all help to minimise the impact on passengers and keep stations open. We are working with the Mayor and other partners on London’s first Surface Water Flooding strategy that will agree a vision and action plan for how to manage the increasing risk of surface water flooding in London, and determine the mechanisms and resources required to tackle this. The strategy will also consider how broader climate change risks, such as heat, drought, and wind can also affect transport services in London. Please find the requested station closures and explanatory notes attached. As we do not have a specific category for “flooding”, the attached list of station closures was compiled looking up closures containing the words “flood” or “water leak”. However, if “flood” or “water leak” were not mentioned in the incidents, then those aren’t included. If this is not the information you are looking for, or if you are unable to access it for any reason, please do not hesitate to contact me. Please see the attached information sheet for details of your right to appeal as well as information on copyright and what to do if you would like to re-use any of the information we have disclosed. Yours sincerely Eva Hextall FOI Case Management Team General Counsel Transport for London
