More than 100 firefighters tackling blaze at industrial unit - after 'explosion' heard by local residents
Footage on social media shows an orange fireball and a thick plume of black smoke.
More than 100 firefighters are tackling a large industrial unit fire in Essex - and an ambulance service has declared a critical incident.
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Fire crews were called to the blaze on Southend Road, between East Hanningfield and Rettendon, at 4.50pm on Friday, according to Essex County Fire and Rescue Service’s website.
Footage on social media shows an orange fireball and a thick plume of black smoke.
Residents reported that their windows rattled during the explosion which could be heard for miles.
Some social media posts suggest the smoke can be seen from parts of South East London.
A spokesman for East of England Ambulance Service said it has declared a critical incident and its hazardous area response team is in attendance.
It is not yet known if there have been any injuries.
Seen in Galleywood, hopefully everyone is ok pic.twitter.com/U1Z18x9RhF
— Mike (@CrappyGamer1992) July 24, 2026
Essex Fire and Rescue: "Over 100 firefighters are working to extinguish the fire in Southend Road.
"Please continue to avoid the area, and keep your windows and doors closed if you live nearby."
We’re currently at the scene of large industrial unit fire in Southend Road between East Hanningfield and Rettendon.
— Essex Fire Service (@ECFRS) July 24, 2026
If you live or are travelling nearby, please keep your windows and doors closed.
Please avoid the area if you can. pic.twitter.com/kgtIdCP0lv