Seventy firefighters raced to battle a dramatic rooftop blaze in Greenwich that sent thick plumes of smoke billowing across southeast London's skyline this afternoon.
The London Fire Brigade received multiple emergency calls just after 3:15 PM reporting flames engulfing the roof of a commercial building on Woolwich Road, SE10. Fire crews from East Greenwich, Lee Green, and surrounding stations rushed to the scene as the fire rapidly spread across the rooftop.
Emergency Response
A significant emergency presence descended upon the area, with eight fire engines working tirelessly to bring the intense blaze under control. The scale of the operation required specialist aerial appliances to reach the height of the flames.
Station Commander James Carter, who was at the scene, described the challenges: "This was a rapidly developing fire involving a substantial area of roofing. Our crews worked in difficult conditions to prevent the fire from spreading to adjacent properties."
Traffic and Travel Disruption
The major fire operation caused significant disruption throughout the Greenwich area, with multiple road closures implemented around Woolwich Road. Transport for London advised motorists to avoid the vicinity as emergency services established a large safety cordon.
Local bus routes were diverted, while pedestrians were urged to stay clear of the area due to falling debris and poor air quality from the smoke.
Safety Investigation
While the fire has now been brought under control, fire investigation officers have begun their work to determine the cause of the blaze. The London Fire Brigade confirmed there were no immediate reports of casualties, though they continue to monitor the structural integrity of the affected building.
Residents in nearby properties were advised to keep windows closed due to smoke, with the incident serving as a stark reminder of the importance of fire safety in commercial and residential buildings alike.
