Flooding
Risk of flooding from rainfall in Harrow
Flooding from heavy rainfall does not happen often in Harrow - however, some areas are at a higher risk because of their geography and drainage systems.
We can’t tell you exactly where and when flooding will happen. We can only provide a general idea of the areas at higher risk, so you can be better prepared.
- Edgware Brook, Stanmore – around 1,761 properties at risk
- Wealdstone Brook, Kenton – about 1,759 properties at risk
- Yeading Brook East, South Ruislip – around 530 properties at risk
- River Pinn, Pinner – about 650 properties at risk
- Woodridings Stream, Pinner Green – around 120 properties at risk
- River Pinn, Eastcote Village – roughly 220 properties at risk
Understanding your local risk helps you take steps to protect your home and stay prepared.
Did you know? Small changes make a big difference
Indoors – How to Protect Your Home
- Seal doors and windows: Apply silicone sealant around the frame, then close and lock them.
- Turn off utilities: Switch off gas, electricity, and water at the mains.
- Unplug and move electrical items: Store them upstairs, or if you don’t have an upstairs, place them on high shelves or cupboards.
- Block sinks and drains: Put plugs in sinks and weigh them down to prevent water backing up.
- Raise furniture: Move as much as possible upstairs or lift onto bricks/blocks.
- Move furniture away from walls: This helps with drying later.
- Roll up carpets and rugs: Store them upstairs.
- Protect curtains: Remove them or hang them over the rail to keep above floodwater.
- Remove internal doors: Store upstairs or leave them open.
- Safeguard valuables: Place sentimental or irreplaceable items on high shelves or upstairs.
- Secure important documents: Keep insurance papers and personal documents in a sealed bag, safe from floodwater.
Outdoors – steps to reduce risk
- Cover openings: Use plywood, sandbags, or metal sheeting on doors, windows, and airbricks.
- Move loose items: Relocate dustbins, garden chemicals, gas cylinders, and anything not fixed down to a safe spot.
- Protect vehicles: Move cars, motorbikes, and other vehicles to higher ground.
- Secure manhole covers: Weigh them down to prevent floating and leaving dangerous holes.
Find advice and suppliers: nationalfloodforum.org.uk
The dangers of flood water
Flood water is dirty and unpredictable. Risks include:
- Hidden Hazards
- Contamination
- Strong Currents
- Electrical Risks
- Unstable Ground
Be prepared – know your alerts and warnings
Sign up for free flood alerts via phone, email, or app:
Flood Alert: Flooding is possible – be prepared
- Monitor local news
- Check flood risk
- Prepare an emergency kit
Flood Warning : Flooding is expected – act now
- Move family, pets, and valuables to safety
- Follow your emergency plan
Severe Flood Warning: Severe flooding – danger to life
- Follow evacuation advice from emergency services
What to do if you need to leave your home
Prepare a small, easy-to-carry emergency bag with essentials:
- Essential medicines and first aid
- Important documents
- Phone chargers and torches
- Warm clothing, blankets, bottled water
- Snacks and pet supplies
- Keys, cash, and ID
- Pet food and carriers
Before leaving: Turn off gas, electricity, and water if safe to do so.
How we’ll help
In the event of serious flooding that has forced people to leave their homes, Harrow Council is likely to open Rest Centres for safety, warmth, and support. As well as refuge, these centres will provide refreshments, information, and help from council staff and partner agencies.
Updates on which centres are open will be shared via:
- Harrow Council website
- Social media
- Local radio
Flood awareness open day – 16th February 2026 10am-3pm
In collaboration with London Fire Brigade and the Environment Agency, we’re hosting an event to help you:
- Understand flood risks in Harrow
- Learn practical tips to keep your home or business safe
- Discover how to prevent costly water damage