A massive “explosion” has shaken houses throughout Essex this Friday night (July 24) following a blaze at an industrial site. Thick smoke is pouring into the sky above a substantial industrial premises on Southend Road.
The enormous cloud of smoke can be seen from right across the county and has been observed from Chelmsford and Southend. Residents reported hearing a thunderous bang shortly before 6pm.
Essex Fire and Rescue are attending the incident. They’ve advised local families and anyone passing through the area to keep their doors and windows shut for the time being, reports Essex Live.
A fire service spokesman said: “We’re currently at the scene of large industrial unit fire in Southend Road between East Hanningfield and Rettendon.
“If you live or are travelling nearby, please keep your windows and doors closed. Please avoid the area if you can.”
Residents across Essex have reported feeling their homes shake when the explosion happened at around 5.45pm this evening.
One person took to social media to write: “There was an explosion near me in Essex, and my whole house shook. I thought it was over for me”
Another added: “Sounded like a bomb went off, even the ground shook!”
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The explosion was felt across areas including Ashingdon, Chelmsford and Shoebury.
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