Fireworks suspected inside London warehouse fire
A major incident has been stood down after fireworks and gas cylinders were believed to be inside a warehouse on fire in west London.
The fire remains ongoing, and crews will continue to carry out firefighting operations overnight, the London Fire Brigade (LFB) said.
About 150 firefighters and 25 engines were sent to the building in Middlesex Business Park on Bridge Road, Southall, following calls at about 08:55 GMT.
Assistant commissioner Pat Goulbourne said all firefighters had withdrawn after reporting explosions and were now "fighting the fire from a greater distance to ensure crew safety".
Three schools and a residential block have been evacuated as a precaution, the LFB said, and warned the operation would continue into the evening.
A spokesperson said Ealing Council was supporting residents displaced by the incident, with more than 100 people sheltering at a local rest centre.
Mr Goulbourne said the fire was in a two-storey structure consisting of a warehouse and retail space.
"Around three-quarters of the structure is currently alight and the roof has subsequently collapsed.
"Three of the brigade's turntable ladders have been deployed to scene, allowing crews to fight the fire from height."
LFB scaled up its operation after originally deploying 70 firefighters, describing it as a "protracted incident".
Crews from Southall, Heston and Ealing, as well as the Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service, were sent to the blaze.
The cause of the fire is unknown.
There were no injuries, the London Ambulance Service said.
"Due to the large amount of smoke being produced by the fire, residents in the local area should keep doors and windows closed as crews respond," the brigade posted on X.
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