A large fire has broken out at an electrical substation in north west London, sending heavy smoke seen billowing over the capital.
Fifteen fire engines and around 100 firefighters were called to the scene at Victoria Passage, Aberdeen Place, St John’s Wood, at 5.29am today.
Residents in the area have been told to keep their doors and windows closed, with 80 people having been evacuated from a nearby block of flats.
Station Commander Paul Morgan, who is at the scene, said: “This is a very visible fire and there is lots of smoke. Residents are advised to keep their windows and doors shut.”
Concerned residents have been pictured in the pyjamas and nightgowns as they wait in the street near to the location of the blaze. They left their homes early this morning.
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According to UK Power Networks, which maintains electricity networks across London, residents of Aberdeen Place are experiencing a power outage.
A message on the website reads: “We are receiving reports from other customers about a power cut in your area.”
It is yet unclear how many residents have been affected.
A spokesperson for London Fire Brigade said: “Fifteen fire engines and around 100 firefighters are tackling a fire at an electrical substation on Victoria Passage, Aberdeen Place near Paddington NW8.
“The Brigade’s 999 Control officers have received over 160 calls alerting them to the blaze.
“The Brigade was called at 0529 and is still on scene. Fire crews from Paddington and Euston and surrounding fire stations are in attendance. One of the Brigade’s turntable ladders and a bulk foam unit are being used at the incident.
“The cause of the fire is not known at this stage.”
A Met Police spokesperson said: “At 05:42hrs on Tuesday, 29 April we were alerted by the London Fire Brigade to a fire at an electricity substation in Victoria Passage, Maida Vale.
“Officers responded to support the emergency response which has required a number of nearby buildings to be evacuated.
“We remain on the scene in support of the London Fire Brigade working alongside partners including the local authority.
“At an appropriate point, firefighters will be able to give an initial view of the potential cause, but for now the priority of all those involved in the response is tackling the fire and ensuring the safety of people in the surrounding area.
“We would echo the London Fire Brigade advice which is to avoid the area and keep windows and doors closed.”
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The blaze has sent a large plume of smoke into the sky as firefighters confirm an electrical transformer is alight, as well as part of the roof of a neighbouring residential building.
Video footage shows a group of firefighters watching the fire rip through the substation, as worried residents wait outside their homes.
Fire crews are using a 32-metre turntable ladder to tackle the blaze from above. The cause of the fire is not yet known.
Aberdeen Place is located not far from Regent’s Park, Lord’s Cricket Ground and Paddington Station.
