Thames Barrier shut to prevent flooding

The Thames Barrier has been closed hours after it opened to protect the capital from flooding.

It was shut for the 178th time in its history at 11.30am and is due to be opened at 4.30pm.

The barrier was also shut overnight on January 13, when waves of more than seven metres high were recorded.

The Thames Barrier, which is located near Woolwich, is one of the largest movable flood barriers in the world.