Massive Fire and Suspected Explosion Shut Down Scrubs Lane, North Kensington
A huge fire and suspected explosion have forced the closure of Scrubs Lane (A219) both ways between North Pole Road (B412) and Harrow Road (A404) in North Kensington, West London.
Blaze Breaks Out After Late-Night Explosion
Emergency services rushed to St Quintin View on North Pole Road just after 11.30pm on Friday 20 June following reports of an explosion from a flat above the property.
The London Fire Brigade confirmed a “six-pump fire” is underway, with persons reported trapped inside. Twelve fire engines and around 60 firefighters are battling the flames, which have engulfed two flats on the second floor of the three-storey residential block.
“We heard a massive boom and saw flames coming out of a flat window – emergency services arrived within minutes,” said a local resident.
Road Closures and Transport Chaos
- Scrubs Lane is fully closed in both directions between North Pole Road and Harrow Road.
- Bus route 20 is on diversion due to the incident.
- Drivers are urged to avoid the area and expect heavy delays through Ladbroke Grove, Kensal Green, and White City.
What We Know So Far
- Location: 28 North Pole Road, London W10 6QL
- Incident: Fire after an explosion in a flat at St Quintin View
- Emergency Response: 12 fire engines, paramedics, police on scene
- Nearby: Close to HMP Wormwood Scrubs
Official Updates and Safety
The London Fire Brigade received the first of 13 calls about the blaze at 11.26pm. Crews from North Kensington, Hammersmith, Kensington, and nearby stations are tackling the fire. One of the brigade’s giant 32-metre ladders is deployed.
The cause remains unknown, and investigations are ongoing.
Emergency services urge anyone with information or who witnessed the incident to contact 999 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Stay Tuned for More
This is a developing story. We will update as more details come in from the Metropolitan Police, London Fire Brigade, and London Ambulance Service.
