On May 8, 1984, the Thames Barrier was officially opened by Queen Elizabeth II. Located downstream of central London, the massive engineering project was designed to protect the city from devastating tidal surges and flooding along the River Thames.
Construction began in 1974, and the barrier became one of the largest movable flood defense systems in the world. It consists of ten steel gates that can be raised to block high tides and storm surges, safeguarding millions of residents and billions in property.
Fun fact: Since its completion, the Thames Barrier has been used over 200 times to prevent potential flooding across Greater London.
Construction began in 1974, and the barrier became one of the largest movable flood defense systems in the world. It consists of ten steel gates that can be raised to block high tides and storm surges, safeguarding millions of residents and billions in property.
Fun fact: Since its completion, the Thames Barrier has been used over 200 times to prevent potential flooding across Greater London.
