The Thames Barrier London June 24
The Thames Barrier often referred to as the eighth wonder of the World is a retractable 520 metre long barrier system built to protect the floodplain of most of Greater London which is about 125 square kilometres from exceptionally high tides and storm surges moving up from the North Sea. It has been operational since 1982. When needed it is closed (raised) during high tide; at low tide, it can be opened to restore the river's flow towards the sea. Built about 2 miles east of the Isle of Dogs its northern bank is in Silvertown in Newham and its southern bank is in Greenwich.
The Barrier has been closed 221 times for flood defence purposes, since it became operational in 1982 If it ever failed the damage to Greater London could not be imagined.
The Thames Barrier London June 24
The Thames Barrier often referred to as the eighth wonder of the World is a retractable 520 metre long barrier system built to protect the floodplain of most of Greater London which is about 125 square kilometres from exceptionally high tides and storm surges moving up from the North Sea. It has been operational since 1982. When needed it is closed (raised) during high tide; at low tide, it can be opened to restore the river's flow towards the sea. Built about 2 miles east of the Isle of Dogs its northern bank is in Silvertown in Newham and its southern bank is in Greenwich.
The Barrier has been closed 221 times for flood defence purposes, since it became operational in 1982 If it ever failed the damage to Greater London could not be imagined.