Thames Barrier: Key Facts About London's Flood Defense System
- The Thames Barrier is a movable flood defense across the River Thames in London.
- It protects central London from tidal surges and high river flows.
- It is the world's second-largest movable flood barrier (after the Maeslantkering in the Netherlands).
- Managed by the UK Environment Agency.
- Spans 520 meters (1,706 ft); stands 18.3 meters (60 ft) tall.
- Consists of ten steel gates, each 61 meters (200 ft) wide, weighing 4,500 tonnes.
- Operated by a hydraulic system using river water.
- Built 1974–1982 at cost of ~£534 million.
- Opened by Queen Elizabeth II on 8 May 1984.
- Raised over 190 times since operation; closed a record 40 days in winter 2014.
- Expected operational until at least 2070, with potential upgrades.
Wanderlust World