Homes and businesses across north London have been left without water today following a burst water main in Camden.
The question residents and business owners have been eagerly waiting to be answered is when they will see their water return after “thousands” were impacted today (December 17).
It started in the early morning as neighbours in Belsize Road in South Hampstead reported residents of basement flats being rescued as waters rose above half a metre at about 2.50am.
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The burst main in Loudoun Road has affected buildings in NW1, NW2, NW6, NW8, NW10, W2, W8, W9 and W10.
What is the latest status?
Thames Water says that it is starting to see water pressures “gradually improving” as it begins to refill the supply network.
In an update at 7.35pm, the supplier said it expects water will return “this evening or overnight".
A specific time estimate has not been provided, although before 5pm Thames Water did estimate it would start in "a few hours".
A statement reads: “We expect customers to come back into supply this evening or overnight, and are turning on additoinal pumps to assist with this.
"The situation should conitnue to recover over the coming hours, as local reservoirs refill."
The supplier added that this is on of their "biggest" repairs for a burst pipe, measuring three-and-a-half feet across. It is expected that general repairs to the pipe could take "several days" but water will be rerouted to supply homes tonight and in the coming days.
What impact has it had on the community?
With no water or low pressure, some businesses in the area reportedly closed their shops early.
It is understood this was due to hygiene concerns or the inability for some businesses such as hair salons being able to offer their full services.
The McDonald’s on Neasden Lane had a sign warning: “Due to no water supply in the area, we are unable to serve hot and soft drinks.
“Sorry for any inconvenience caused.”
Meanwhile, residents living in north London were seen carrying large batches of bottled water in many local shops and supermarkets.
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