West London warehouse engulfed in flames as fire brigade declares major incident

A large blaze has engulfed a warehouse in West London, prompting the London Fire Brigade (LFB) to declare a major incident due to the suspected presence of fireworks and gas cylinders.

Around 150 firefighters and 25 fire engines are currently battling the fire at a two-storey warehouse and retail structure on Bridge Road, Southall, Sky News reports.

The LFB confirmed that approximately three-quarters of the building is alight. “Three of the Brigade turntable ladders have been deployed to scene, allowing crews to fight the fire from height,” the service said in a statement.

In a midday update, Assistant Commissioner Pat Goulbourne, the Brigade's incident commander, said: “A major incident has been declared. This decision has been taken due to the suspected presence of fireworks and cylinders being stored within the structure. All firefighters have withdrawn to a safe distance and are now fighting the fire from a greater distance to ensure crew safety.”

Residents in the area have been advised to keep doors and windows closed due to the heavy smoke, and traffic disruptions are expected. The first reports of the fire were received at 8:55 a.m., and LFB control officers have taken around 60 calls regarding the incident.

“This will be a protracted incident, with crews carrying out firefighting operations throughout the day,” the brigade added in a post on X. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

By Vafa Guliyeva