A car was swept away from Putney Embankment and left to float along the Thames on Wednesday (February 12) after high tides caused water levels to rise.

This part of London is known for its notoriously high tide and it seems one unlucky driver made a mistake parking on the slipways used by rowing clubs.

The London Port Authority recovered the vehicle after warnings of another high tide from Putney to Teddington as a result of spring tides.

These occur after a new or full moon, when there is the greatest difference between high and low water.

Alan, a Flood Forecaster at The Thames Barrier, tweeted: “Low-lying roads will flood at high tide, but no property flooding expected. Please be careful where you leave your car.”

Wandsworth Times:

The Environment Agency echoed these warnings, and said it was a common flood alert for the area, but that water levels could be higher due to the amount of rainfall expected with Storm Dennis this weekend.

They warned locals to “be prepared”.

James Mead, a staff member at Crewroom, a sporting goods store along the river, said flooding is common but yesterday’s tide was “the highest it’s been here in a year and a half”.

He said he has seen a number of cars swept away by the tides over the years, especially those belonging to people who don’t know the area well.

Paul Barnard from nearby Chas Newens Marine Co Limited agreed: “People always park their cars there because there’s no parking restrictions. If they don’t get back until the tide is up, then they have lost the car.”

A spokesperson for Wandsworth Council also advised against parking on the slipways due to the high risk of flooding.

But despite the proximity to the river, Mr Barnard said the shop is usually protected by the flood gates, so he isn’t particularly worried about Storm Dennis this weekend.

Coming just a week after Storm Ciara, Dennis is set to batter the city this weekend, with a yellow weather warning in place for wind across the whole of London.

The Met Office has also forecast heavy rain for Saturday (February 15) and Sunday (February 16), mostly affecting South and West London.

The weather should clear by Monday.