26 November
The fire on Bridge Road, Southall is under control. The Brigade has reduced its presence at the site, and firefighters are working to fully extinguish the remaining pockets of fire in the structure. There are no reports of any injuries. The cause of the fire is under investigation by the Brigade and Metropolitan Police Service.
25 November
Speaking at the scene, Assistant Commissioner Pat Goulbourne, the Brigade's Incident Commander said: "At 0855, the Brigade’s Control officers took the first of over 70 calls reporting a fire at a warehouse on Bridge Road, Southall. Control officers immediately mobilised crews from Southall, Heston, Ealing and surrounding fire stations to the scene.
"On arrival, crews discovered a well-established fire, and additional resources were requested. Due to the complex nature of the building, and location of the fire, by 0933, 15 fire engines were requested.
"As crews carried out firefighting operations, explosions were reported at the scene. These explosions likely involved cylinders and fireworks stored in the affected structure. As a result, a major incident was declared, with additional firefighters requested to attend the scene. Neighbouring properties, including three schools and a residential block have been evacuated as a precaution whilst crews respond.
"We currently have 25 fire engines and around 150 firefighters tackling this incident, working hard to bring it under control. This is a protracted incident, and firefighting operations will continue into the evening. The fire is still producing a large amount of smoke, so we’re advising local residents still keep doors and windows closed where possible.
"At this time, the cause of the fire remains unknown.
"I’d like to thank our firefighters, control officers and staff for their response to this incident so far, and the work they will continue to do. We were also supported early on in the incident by fire engines from Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service.
"I’d also like to finish by thanking our partners from the London Ambulance Service and Metropolitan Police Service, British Transport Police and Transport for London for their support as we respond. The Brigade’s Community Engagement team is also working with the Local Authority as they support residents who have been displaced by this incident."
Incident overview
The fire was located in a two-storey structure consisting of a warehouse and retail space. At the height of the incident, around three-quarters of the structure was alight. The roof of the building subsequently collapsed, resulting in the destruction of the remaining building. Three of the Brigade's turntable ladders were deployed to scene, allowing crews to fight the fire from height. The Brigade's drone team was deployed to give officers an aerial view of the incident and measure the extent of the fire.
A major incident was declared at 1220 (25 November), and all firefighters on scene withdrew to a safe distance. Subsequent firefighting operations have been carried out at a distance due to the risk of explosions and to ensure crew safety. The major incident was stood down at 1802 (25 November), and firefighters will remain on scene through the evening.
Around 1000 people were evacuated from surrounding properties due to the possible risk of explosions. Residents have now been able to return to their homes.
The Brigade's Control Officers took over 70 calls reporting the fire, with the first received at 0855. Crews from Southall, Heston, Ealing and surrounding fire stations were sent to the scene.
Advice around smoke
This incident is continuing to produce a notable plume of smoke. We're advising people in the immediate area to keep windows closed as a precaution whilst crews respond.