A significant industrial fire has caused major disruption in Wolverhampton after a factory on Sunbeam Street erupted in flames on Wednesday morning.
The incident began shortly after 7.30am on Wednesday 14 January 2026, prompting a large-scale emergency response from the West Midlands Fire Service.
Emergency Response Escalates Rapidly
Fire crews initially attended the scene with eight fire engines. However, as the blaze intensified, the response was dramatically scaled up. By 10.45am, the fire service had deployed a total of 17 fire engines, two 4x4 brigade response vehicles, two hydraulic aerial platforms, and a specialist drone team to tackle the incident.
Striking aerial footage captured by drones shows the scale of the fire, with substantial plumes of dark smoke billowing from the structure. Firefighters from multiple stations across the region are using breathing apparatus and hose reel jets in a concerted effort to bring the flames under control.
Public Health Advice Issued
The smoke from the burning factory is visible for miles across Wolverhampton, leading to serious concerns about air quality. Authorities have issued clear guidance to the public in response to the potential hazard.
People have been advised to avoid Sunbeam Street entirely to allow emergency services unrestricted access. Furthermore, anyone living or working in the vicinity has been instructed to keep their doors and windows closed to minimise exposure to the smoke.
Ongoing Incident and Area Disruption
The fire is causing considerable disruption in the local area, with road closures and significant traffic delays expected to continue for some time. The cause of the blaze is not yet known and will be subject to investigation once the fire is fully extinguished.
The West Midlands Fire Service continues to work at the scene. Residents are encouraged to follow official updates from the emergency services and local authorities for the latest information and safety advice.
