A significant fire engulfing an industrial building in west London has led to the evacuation of residents and the dismissal of students from nearby schools. Ealing Council announced that residents in affected areas are being evacuated, while schools are releasing pupils early. Temporary rest centers have been set up as disruption is anticipated to persist for the next 8 hours.
Approximately 150 firefighters operating on 25 fire engines have been combating the blaze at a two-story structure comprising a warehouse and retail area on Bridge Road in Southall since morning hours. The London Fire Brigade responded to the emergency at 8:55 am, dispatching crews from Southall, Heston, Ealing, and neighboring fire stations.
The fire was escalated to a “major incident” by the London Fire Brigade due to the suspected presence of fireworks and gas cylinders, presenting safety risks for the responding teams. Local residents have been advised by the authorities to keep doors and windows shut as a precaution.
The London Ambulance Service confirmed no injuries have been reported among the public or emergency responders, although the Hazardous Area Response Team is on-site as a precautionary measure. The cause of the fire is currently undetermined.
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