What should have been a normal Saturday outing for shoppers in Stratford quickly turned into a scene of panic and confusion after a massive fire broke out at Westfield Stratford City.
Hundreds of visitors were evacuated as thick smoke filled the sky above one of London’s busiest shopping destinations.
Fire Erupts in Car Park
The blaze started in one of the shopping centre’s multi-storey car parks on Montfichet Road.
Witnesses reported seeing dark plumes rising into the air as firefighters rushed to the scene.
Emergency crews later confirmed that the fire began in a vehicle on the upper levels of the car park, which quickly spread and sent smoke billowing into the surrounding area.
Massive Emergency Response
Within minutes, ten fire engines and around 70 firefighters were battling the inferno.
A 32-metre turntable ladder was brought in to help crews tackle the flames from above.
The London Fire Brigade confirmed that they received their first emergency call at 4:05 pm, followed by 35 more calls from concerned members of the public.
Firefighters from Stratford, Poplar, Leytonstone and nearby stations joined forces to contain the blaze.
Warnings to the Public
Officials urged people to stay away from the area as the fire produced large amounts of smoke, making it hazardous for both pedestrians and drivers nearby.
“The fire is producing a significant amount of smoke and we’re advising people to avoid the area at this time,” a spokesperson warned.
Football Fans Caught Up in the Chaos
The timing of the fire couldn’t have been worse—it broke out just an hour and a half before West Ham were set to face Tottenham at the nearby London Stadium.
With tensions already running high ahead of the Premier League clash, many fans heading to the match found themselves caught up in the evacuation.
Social Media Shows the Scale
Pictures and videos shared online show dramatic scenes of black smoke pouring from the top of the car park, filling the Stratford skyline.
Shoppers and football fans looked on anxiously as firefighters worked tirelessly to bring the situation under control.