A terrifying explosion tore through a terraced house in Ley Street, Ilford, sending debris flying and engulfing the property in flames.
https:///youtube.com/shorts/1lfU81dAfvU
The dramatic incident occurred on Tuesday afternoon, forcing emergency services to mobilize in large numbers to contain the fire.
Explosion and Response
The explosion, which occurred just after 4 PM, blew the roof off the two-storey house and sent shattered glass and bricks across the busy street. Shocked bystanders captured footage showing pedestrians running for safety as the blast sprayed debris into the road. Nearby vehicles, including a bus, narrowly avoided the falling wreckage.
https:///youtu.be/kmSu78U0M1Y
The fire quickly spread, consuming the first floor and a loft conversion of the property. By the time eight fire engines and 60 firefighters arrived, flames were still visible, and thick plumes of smoke billowed into the sky.
A 32-metre turntable ladder was used to douse the flames from above, while a drone provided aerial footage to assist the firefighting effort. The fire was brought under control by 6:23 PM, but crews remain on-site as investigations into the cause continue.
https:///www.youtube.com/watch?v=1YGIBNJzoHw
Witness Accounts and On-Scene Impact
Videos posted on social media captured the intense flames and the aftermath of the explosion. One witness described the sound of the blast as “thunderous” and said, “It felt like the ground shook.”
A stranded bus was seen parked close to the scene as firefighters battled the inferno. Local residents have been advised to avoid the area as Ley Street remains closed between Eastern Avenue and Vicarage Road, causing significant traffic disruptions.
Fire Brigade and Police Statements
Station Commander Darren McTernan commended the firefighters’ swift response:
“Crews worked hard to bring this fire under control. Our 32-metre turntable ladder and drone team were invaluable in managing the situation from above.”
He added:
“We will remain on scene throughout the evening to ensure the area is safe and to investigate the cause of the fire.”
A spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police confirmed their presence alongside the London Fire Brigade and London Ambulance Service:
“We were called at 4:08 PM on December 10 to reports of a fire at a residential property in Ley Street. Cordons are in place as we continue our investigation.
A London Ambulance Service spokesman said:
“We were called today (Tuesday 10) at 4.13pm to reports of a fire in Ley Street, Ilford.
“We sent resources including ambulance crews, an advanced paramedic practitioner, an incident response officer and members of our hazardous area response team (HART).
“We treated three people. We took two to hospital and discharged a third at the scene
