An explosion and subsequent blaze at an industrial unit in Essex have prompted a large-scale emergency response. The incident occurred on Southend Road, between East Hanningfield and Rettendon, on Friday evening.
Scores of firefighters are on the scene working to extinguish the fire, which sent thick black smoke billowing across the county. Residents reported hearing a loud boom shortly before 6 p.m., with some indicating the sound was audible nearly 14 miles away in Southend. Emergency services have advised local residents to keep their doors and windows closed.
The road between Rettendon Turnpike and South Hanningfield Road has been closed as emergency services manage the situation. Steven Whan, a local resident, described the police presence as heavy, stating, "The police have blocked off everything. You can't get nowhere near it." He added that the sound reminded him of a sonic boom, which he had experienced before.
A spokesperson for Essex Fire and Rescue Service confirmed that over 100 firefighters are engaged in extinguishing the blaze. They reiterated the advice for people to avoid the area and keep windows and doors shut if they live nearby. As of the latest reports, there have been no confirmed injuries.