Lewisham fire: Concern as 70 firefighters tackle huge blaze at block of flats

Dozens of firefighters are tackling a large blaze at a flat in southeast London.

Residents across Lewisham have expressed concern on social media at the fire, which started late on Tuesday night at the five-room maisonette in the London borough. Firefighters remain at the scene, after the control centre received 14 calls in relation to the blaze. People should avoid the area, London Fire Brigade stressed.

Someone in the area posted on X: "Big fire in block of Flats in Lewisham, hope they get out ok." Another shared: "Huge fire up Modern hill road Lewisham ambulances and fire engines everywhere."

It is, at this stage, unclear if anyone is injured and, if so, what the nature of any injuries is. London Fire Brigade says the cause of the fire is also unclear at the moment. Crews will remain at the scene overnight to fully extinguish the flames.

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Ten fire engines, including from Greenwhich and Lee, dashed to the scene. It is believed police officers and paramedics are present, though the Mirror is working to establish more details.

A spokesperson for London Fire Brigade said this morning: "Ten fire engines and around 70 firefighters are tackling a fire at a block of maisonettes on Lewisham Road, Lewisham.

"A small part of a five roomed maisonette is alight. Lewisham Road is currently closed between Penrose Way and Lewisham Hill

"Control Officers took the first of 14 calls at 2355 and mobilised crews to the scene from Greenwich, Lewisham, Lee Green and surrounding fire stations. The cause of the fire is not yet known." The service added on X: "Please avoid the area while the incident is ongoing."

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It follows a fire in Harrow in the northwest of the capital last week, which reportedly saw gas cylinders explode. This emergency led to severe delays on the London Underground's Piccadilly Line because the blaze happened near arches which take the line over the Harrow and Rayners Lane area.

The fire occurred at a range of four railway arches, housing businesses including vehicle workshops. The units have been severely damaged by fire.

Speaking after Friday's operation, Station Commander Graham Beers, who was at the scene, said: "Crews were faced with a substantial fire affecting multiple commercial units situated within a railway arches. Whilst most of the fire has now been extinguished, firefighters will remain on scene through today putting out deep-seated pockets of fire, dampening down hotspots and ensuring the scene is safe.

"We asked people in the local area to keep their windows and doors closed during the height of the fire due to smoke travel. Around 300 people were also temporarily evacuated from nearby homes as a precaution due to the proximity of the incident and smoke. Road closures remain in place in Roxeth Green Avenue, near the junction of The Arches, and are expected to remain in place whilst we continue to work at the scene."

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