A major fire has erupted at an electrical substation in St John’s Wood, North-West London, sending thick plumes of smoke across the capital and prompting evacuations in the surrounding area.
The blaze, which began early on the morning of April 29, has required a large-scale response from emergency services, including over 100 firefighters.
Firefighters Tackle Blaze at St John’s Wood Substation
The fire started around 5:30 AM at an electrical substation in Victoria Passage, St John’s Wood, in North-West London. According to the London Fire Brigade (LFB), crews arrived swiftly at the scene, where an electrical transformer was alight.
The blaze was substantial, with thick black smoke rising into the sky, visible from many areas across the capital. Fifteen fire engines, along with around 100 firefighters, were dispatched to the scene, using bulk foam and turntable ladders to fight the flames.
Residents in the surrounding area have been advised to keep their doors and windows closed due to the heavy smoke.
Local authorities have confirmed that around 80 people were evacuated from nearby residential buildings as a safety measure. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported at this time, and authorities are working to ensure the safety of those affected.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation, with fire crews still on site to bring the blaze under control. According to a spokesperson from the LFB, “The cause of the fire is not known at this stage.”
Impact on Local Community and Public Safety
The fire has caused significant disruption, particularly for residents living in close proximity to the substation. Those evacuated have been left waiting outside their homes as firefighters continue their efforts.
According to Station Commander Paul Morgan, who is overseeing operations at the scene, the fire remains “very visible,” with a substantial amount of smoke. Local emergency services, including the Metropolitan Police, are supporting the fire brigade and monitoring the situation closely.
UK Power Networks has confirmed that, despite the fire, power supplies have not been interrupted in the area. However, the authorities are still on alert, with air quality monitors in place to assess potential health risks for those living nearby.
Local residents, many of whom were woken by the blaze, have expressed their concern about the scale of the fire and the immediate response.
