A large-scale fire on a railway embankment in east London forced the evacuation of local residents as emergency services battled the blaze.
Approximately 125 firefighters and 20 fire engines were dispatched to the scene near Vallentin Road in Walthamstow. The London Fire Brigade (LFB) reported that the fire damaged one home, a second property’s rear extension, and the gardens and sheds of roughly 30 other properties. No injuries have been reported.
The incident is believed to have been triggered by an electrical fire resulting from a fallen tree. Due to the significant volume of smoke, residents were advised to keep windows and doors closed, and motorists were urged to avoid the Wood Street area.
The blaze caused partial closures on the Weaver Overground line. To combat the fire, the LFB deployed a drone team and a 32-metre turntable ladder, which acted as a water tower to douse the flames from above.
Assistant Commissioner Tom Goodall stated that crews worked under “hot and arduous conditions” to contain the fire and prevent it from spreading to further residences. He confirmed that a significant presence would remain on-site overnight to ensure the fire is fully extinguished.
The LFB received over 100 calls starting at 6:27 pm, prompting the mobilization of crews from Bethnal Green, Tottenham, Walthamstow, Chingford, and other nearby stations.
Local MP Stella Creasy shared video footage of the scene via Instagram, urging the public to avoid the Wood Street area to allow support for evacuated families. She encouraged those wishing to provide food and water donations to visit St Mary’s Welcome Centre.
In a later update, Ms. Creasy noted that most evacuated residents have since been permitted to return to their homes. Additionally, a second rest centre has been established at Walthamstow Central library in partnership with Waltham Forest Council to support those affected.