2016 Flooding of London

The 2016 Flooding of London was a severe flash flood caused by a superstorm known as Storm Veronica, where a surge of water overwhelmed the Thames Barrier. Downstream, near Euston and in several other places, the surge overwhelmed retaining walls, resulting in the water-logging of several boroughs.

The incident resulted in 71 deaths and 455 injuries, and it resulted in the city greatly bolstering flood defences, including new disaster protocols, the heightening of retaining walls, and upgrades to the flood barrier system. As years went on, however, rising sea levels caused by global warming caused them to become ineffective.

Damage

London Euston was one of the most catastrophically damaged structures by the flood - while not directly affected by the surge from the Thames, the failing storm drains to the north and west of the station caused water to rush into the surrounding area, accelerating as it followed the slope of train tracks leading to the station.

The force of the water was enough to shear tracks in the station directly off their sleepers and created a massive electrical arc. Fortunately, most of the station had already evacuated due to the storm warning, but staff were forced to rapidly assist the remaining few passengers. The damage resulted in the station closing for repairs until 2026.