Fire crews rescued a man trapped in a van and led others to safety after a heavy summer downpour led to flash flooding.

Six fire engines and around 40 firefighters dealt with flooding from Tokyngton Avenue to Stonebridge Road and Harrow Road in Wembley. 

An area of around one square mile was flooded up to depth of approximately one metre, London Fire Brigade said.

The brigade were called just after 3.30pm yesterday (August 2) and the incident was over for firefighters by 9.50pm.

Around 19 people were led to safety and firefighters rescued a man trapped in a van near Stonebridge Station. 

Crews diverted flood water and prevented it from entering further properties.

Just last week gardens in Tokyngton Avenue were submerged following overnight downpours.

On July 27 heavy rain affected several homes. 

Brent & Kilburn Times: Flash flooding in Wembley following heavy downpour on August 2 2023Flash flooding in Wembley following heavy downpour on August 2 2023 (Image: @LondonFire)

The brigade has a range of equipment which can be used to help rescue people trapped by flood water, pump water away and protect properties.

Fire units are equipped with inflatable rescue boats and have specialist flood response kits, each containing rigid flood rescue boats and paddles and rigid floating pontoons, and flood barriers.

They also contain protective dry suits and boots to be worn by fire crews when rescuing people from flooded areas.

LFB has released their 'top tips' for flash floods.

  • Call 999 if in immediate danger and follow the advice of the operator as to evacuate or not.
  • Not evacuating when told to "may be putting yourself and those people attempting to rescue you in greater danger", they added.
  • Those evacuating must make sure to bring a grab bag with which should contain the essential items you’d need if you left your home.
  • If possible, turn off any gas, water and electricity supply if safe to do so.

A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: “Recent heavy rain has shown how quickly a flash flood can inundate a street.

“Our firefighters know what they need to do in a flood, but it’s important Londoners know as well. We’d encourage you to follow our flooding advice.”

Fire crews from Willesden, Park Royal, Wembley, Ealing and surrounding fire stations attended the scene.