A massive fire erupted near the O2 Arena in Newham, London on Saturday. A huge plume of smoke could be seen over river Thames as loud bangs and explosions were reported by witnesses. Newham Metropolitan Police Department said in a statement that they are aware of the incident but assured that there is no risk for the public.
"We are aware of reports of explosions being heard in the vicinity of the #O2 in #Greenwich. This was part of a pre-planned filming event in the Canning Town #E16 area. There is no risk to the public," the Newham MPD said in a statement.
We are aware of reports of explosions being heard in the vicinity of the #O2 in #Greenwich.This was part of a pre-planned filming event in the Canning Town #E16 area.There is no risk to the public
— Newham MPS | North East BCU (@MPSNewham) August 31, 2024
Social media users posted videos from the scene, showing dozens of emergency service members trying to douse the flames. Here are some of the posts.
Huge fire near O2 in London. Rumours say it could be a BBC truck that is on fire. pic.twitter.com/QRxfd3V6dk
— AdrianAllen (@AdrianAllen) August 31, 2024
One user wrote: "Holly shit ! Whats happening in east London. ? 6 powerful explosions hit London's O2 Arena in Greenwich, causing chaos. The initial 3 blasts released thick black smoke, while the subsequent 2 explosions forced the closure of the London Cable Car bridge."
Holly shit ! Whats happening in east London. ? 6 powerful explosions hit London's O2 Arena in Greenwich, causing chaos. The initial 3 blasts released thick black smoke, while the subsequent 2 explosions forced the closure of the London Cable Car bridge.#Londonpic.twitter.com/4pOrQJvrWc
— Hafsa H Malik (@kashmiricanibal) August 31, 2024
A series of explosions, including one bright orange blast captured on video, occurred in the Canning Town E16 area, reportedly the third of the night. Witnesses described hearing "absolutely enormous and very loud explosions" near their residences, with a shipping container caught on fire.
The London Fire Brigade reported that half of a car and a lorry were involved in the blaze, which is now "under control." Four fire engines and about 25 firefighters from Poplar, Millwall, Shadwell, and East Greenwich were dispatched to the scene on Dock Road in Silvertown. Fire crews will remain on site throughout the night.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed they are aware of the explosions, noting that the incident was part of a pre-planned filming by BBC in the area.