A major emergency response is underway after a significant explosion rocked a key UK oil refinery, sending a colossal plume of smoke into the sky and causing widespread alarm.
Emergency services, including multiple fire engines and hazardous area response teams, were scrambled to the Stanlow Oil Refinery in Ellesmere Port, Cheshire, following the blast just after 7pm. Terrified locals reported their homes shaking from the force of the explosion, which was heard and felt for miles around.
Eyewitnesses Describe 'Apocalyptic' Scene
One eyewitness described the scene as "apocalyptic," stating, "There was a huge bang and the whole house shook. I looked out and saw a massive fireball and then this enormous black cloud of smoke." Social media was quickly flooded with videos and images showing a dramatic dark smoke cloud illuminated by a fierce orange glow from the fire below.
Emergency Services on High Alert
Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service confirmed they were in attendance at a "large-scale incident." A spokesperson said: "We can confirm we are currently in attendance at a large-scale incident at the Stanlow Manufacturing Complex. Residents are advised to keep windows and doors closed as a precautionary measure due to smoke plume direction."
There has been no immediate confirmation of casualties, and the exact cause of the explosion is not yet known. The Health and Safety Executive has been notified of the incident.
