A massive fire erupted this afternoon at an industrial estate on Willoughby Drive, off Rainham Road South, Dagenham. Flames tore through three containers, several vehicles, and piles of scrap metal, sending a giant plume of thick black smoke high into the sky, visible for miles around.
The London Fire Brigade responded swiftly around 2pm, dispatching approximately 70 firefighters from stations including Dagenham, Barking, Wennington, Hornchurch, Romford, and nearby areas. Crews used a 32-metre turntable ladder to douse the fire from above, quickly reaching the core of the blaze.
In a crucial move, firefighters removed two potentially explosive gas cylinders from the danger zone, helping to prevent further hazards. Thanks to their efforts, the fire was brought under control by about 4.20pm. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported.
Station Commander Mel Anderson, present at the scene, issued a safety warning to local residents: “This was a very visible fire that created a huge amount of smoke.” He advised people to keep windows and doors closed until the smoke clears. Motorists were also urged to avoid Rainham Road South due to ongoing road closures while emergency crews remained on site.
Local residents expressed relief that no one was harmed. Many shared dramatic drone footage online showing the towering smoke cloud over the area. Fire investigators are currently examining the site to determine the cause of the blaze. Authorities have requested anyone with information or video footage to come forward.
Stay tuned for live updates from the London Fire Brigade as this story develops.
Originally published by UKNIP.
