Ten fire engines and around 70 firefighters were called to a fire on Kemp Road in Dagenham.
Firefighters tackled a fire within an industrial unit containing tyres where a significant area was damaged by fire.
Residents in the area were advised to keep their doors and windows shut due to the heavy smoke in the area. Firefighters will remain at the scene for the next few hours to dampen down the area.
The Brigade's Control Office was called at 2157 and sent fire crews from Dagenham, Ilford, Romford, Hornchurch and surrounding fire stations to the scene. The fire was under control by 2333.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.