Fire crews from across Essex remained at the scene of a significant blaze on Southend Road on Friday evening after an industrial unit caught fire and a fertiliser store exploded, prompting a major incident declaration and the evacuation of nearby residents.
Scale of the response
Essex Fire and Rescue Service reported that around 100 firefighters were engaged in tackling the fire, which affected multiple industrial units and an adjacent field. The incident occurred on the stretch of Southend Road between East Hanningfield and Rettendon. Residents across the county reported hearing a loud explosion and feeling it in their homes.
Public safety measures and local impact
Emergency services issued an early public safety advisory asking people in the area to keep windows and doors closed and to avoid the vicinity if possible. A number of nearby homes were evacuated as crews worked to prevent the fire spreading into residential areas.
“This is a significant fire but we have it under control and there is no wider risk to members of the public,”
Area Manager Dave Bond said crews had been working to prevent the blaze reaching houses and confirmed that the explosion was caused by fertiliser stored within one of the units. He added that everyone at the scene was safe and emphasised there was currently no wider risk to the public.
Timeline of key developments
| Time (BST) | Event |
|---|---|
| Early evening | Fire breaks out at industrial units on Southend Road |
| 18:18–18:51 | Local reports of a loud explosion; shocking images and video circulated |
| 20:54 | Major incident declared |
| 21:50 | Fire being scaled down; reassurance issued to public |
What residents need to know
- If you live or are travelling near Southend Road between East Hanningfield and Rettendon, keep windows and doors closed and avoid the area.
- Follow directions from emergency services and local authorities; expect potential road closures and disruption while crews remain on scene.
- Those evacuated should seek information from local authorities about when it is safe to return.
The cause of the original fire is subject to investigation. Essex Fire and Rescue Service and partner agencies will continue work to make the scene safe and to determine the full circumstances that led to the incident. I will update readers with further verified information as it becomes available.
Isla Baker, InfoRadar Southend-on-Sea Correspondent
