Around 150 firefighters and 25 fire engines are battling a major blaze at a two-storey warehouse and retail space on Bridge Road in Southall, west London. The London Fire Brigade (LFB) warned that fireworks may be stored inside the building, urging the public to keep a safe distance.
At the height of the incident, three-quarters of the building was ablaze, with about a quarter still burning on Tuesday evening. The warehouse roof has collapsed, and three schools and a block of flats were evacuated as a precaution. A major incident was declared but stood down at 6.02pm, though firefighters will remain overnight.
London Fire Commissioner Jonathan Smith said: 'To everyone in the area, just keep yourself safe. Keep yourselves out of the perimeter. We've got a 200-metre perimeter around the scene.' He described the operation as 'very, very busy' and expected to continue overnight.
Crews from Southall, Heston, Ealing and surrounding stations responded. Three turntable ladders were deployed but firefighters have since withdrawn for safety. Incident Commander Pat Goulbourne said: 'All firefighters have withdrawn to a safe distance and are now fighting the fire from a greater distance to ensure crew safety.'
Goulbourne advised residents to close doors and windows due to heavy smoke, and drivers to avoid the area. The first reports of the fire came at 8.55am, with about 60 calls received.
