A significant fire has broken out in an industrial building in west London, leading to the evacuation of residents and the dismissal of pupils from nearby schools. The blaze, located on Bridge Road in Southall, has drawn the response of approximately 150 firefighters operating 25 fire engines. The structure, which includes a warehouse and retail space, has been engulfed in flames since the morning, with three-quarters of the building currently ablaze.
The London Fire Brigade (LFB) was alerted to the fire at 8.55 am and escalated it to a “major incident” around midday due to concerns over the potential presence of fireworks and gas cylinders, complicating the firefighting efforts. Crews are expected to continue operations throughout the day to contain the fire.
Ealing Council announced that residents in the vicinity are being evacuated, and schools are releasing students early. Rest centers have been set up to assist those affected, with disruptions anticipated for the next 8 hours.
Assistant Commissioner Pat Goulbourne, the Incident Commander of LFB, emphasized the prolonged nature of the incident due to the fire’s size and complexity. Precautionary evacuations of nearby buildings, including a school and a residential block, have been carried out. The fire has generated a substantial amount of smoke visible across West London, prompting advice for residents to keep doors and windows closed. Local traffic is expected to be heavily impacted, and people are advised to avoid the area if possible.
The London Ambulance Service reported no injuries to the public or emergency responders, with the Hazardous Area Response Team maintaining a presence at the scene. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.