A major blaze broke out this evening as locals reported “explosions” near the O2 arena and billowing flames visible in the vicinity.
Thick black smoke billowed into the skies over east London tonight, as social media was flooded with clips of the alarming scenes, reports the Mirror. Several people near-by reported hearing blasts in the area, with one posting: “What were those two loud bangs and black smoke near the O2?.”
Another remarked about a “huge explosion” close to the entertainment venue, while a different user mentioned “four large bangs” near the site.
READ MORE: Horror moment plane ‘falls out of sky’ and collides into built-up neighbourhood
Check out the latest stories from Daily Star
A fourth individual described the noise as “absolutely enormous” saying: “There have just been some absolutely enormous and very loud explosions next to my flat.”
The London Fire Brigade swiftly arrived at the scene, with their rapid response and deployment of engines and boats drawing commendations from spectators.
On the force’s social media account, the brigade confirmed its presence at an incident on Dock Road in Silvertown, Newham, stating: “Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters are tackling a fire at an open air yard on Dock Road in Silvertown.”
They added: “Half of a car and lorry are alight. The Brigade was called at 1951. Crews from Poplar, Millwall, Shadwell, East Greenwich are attended the scene.”
Meanwhile, the Metropolitan Police confirmed their awareness of the situation, revealing on X that it was part of a “pre-planned filming event” in Canning Town.
The Met commented: “We are aware of reports of explosions being heard in the vicinity of the O2 in Greenwich. This was part of a pre-planned filming event in the Canning Town E16 area. There is no risk to the public.”
This event occurs just days after a massive fire in Dagenham, which is a mere 20-minute drive from Silvertown, demanded the attention of hundreds of firefighters.
The London Fire Brigade (LFB) launched a colossal operation to tackle a blaze at a mixed-use building, with flames seen soaring up the sides of the property on Monday.
The building, which accommodates both residents and businesses, was engulfed in flames, prompting an intense firefighting effort through the night.
Firefighters managed to account for all residents, evacuating over 80 individuals.
Two individuals were hospitalised after the incident, and an inquiry into the fire’s cause is underway.