London Fire Brigade has deployed a major emergency response to a serious blaze in the Tower Hamlets area of East London, with 60 firefighters rushing to the scene to tackle a fire that has engulfed a battery room in a data centre building.
Incident Details and Emergency Response
The fire broke out in the early hours of Saturday, January 24, 2026, at a 13-storey data building located on Nutmeg Lane in Blackwall. According to official reports from the London Fire Brigade, the blaze originated in a battery room situated in the basement of the structure. This room contained LED batteries, which are believed to have contributed to the intensity of the fire.
Timeline and Current Status
The emergency services were first alerted to the incident at 4:52 AM on Saturday morning. Since then, fire crews have been working tirelessly to bring the flames under control. The response involves multiple fire engines and specialised equipment to manage the hazardous conditions posed by the burning batteries.
As of the latest updates, the situation remains active, with firefighters focusing on containing the fire to prevent it from spreading to other parts of the building. The London Fire Brigade has emphasised that their primary goal is to ensure the safety of the surrounding area and minimise any potential damage to the infrastructure.
Impact and Safety Concerns
Fires involving battery rooms, particularly in data centres, can present unique challenges due to the risk of chemical releases and electrical hazards. The presence of LED batteries in this case adds a layer of complexity, as such materials can fuel rapid fire growth and require specific firefighting techniques.
Residents and businesses in the vicinity of Nutmeg Lane have been advised to stay clear of the area while emergency operations continue. Authorities are monitoring air quality and structural integrity as part of their safety protocols.
This incident highlights the critical importance of fire safety measures in commercial and industrial buildings, especially those housing sensitive equipment like data servers and energy storage systems. The London Fire Brigade is expected to provide further updates as the situation develops.
