Massive fire breaks out at tower block after ‘explosion’
A large fire broke out on the roof of an apartment building in Staines town centre this afternoon.
Eight fire engines arrived to battle the flames around 12.35pm, Surrey Fire and Rescue said.
It urged residents to keep windows and doors closed as black smoke billowed from the roof, where footage showed flames shooting into the sky.
One woman posted video from the scene on X, saying she was told the gas tanks on the roof exploded.
Aerial images of the roof show metal canisters, some of which are scorched black, with debris scattered around.
Despite getting the fire under control, the fire service has urged people to stay away from the area.
Surrey Fire and Rescue said: ‘This fire is now under control and all people are accounted for.
‘Please stay away from the area for some more time, if possible, whilst we continue our work here.
‘Thanks to staff and partners who have supported at this incident.’
London Fire Brigade is understood to have assisted in fighting the fire.
The fire broke out at the location of a former multi-storey carpark, which is now being redeveloped as a residential building.
It remains a building site.
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