Explosion Rocks Bristol Waste Plant: Multiple Injuries and Trapped Workers
Emergency crews swarm a Bristol Waste Water site in Avonmouth after a massive explosion rocked the area. Firefighters from Avon Fire and Rescue confirm there are multiple casualties following the blast.
Silo Collapse Traps Four Workers
The chaos began just after 11.30am on Thursday when a silo collapsed at the state-of-the-art food waste processing plant on King Weston Lane. Four workers remain trapped inside. The facility, operated by GENeco, processes up to 40,000 tonnes of food waste annually, turning it into renewable energy and nutrient-rich fertiliser.
At full throttle, the plant can power around 3,000 homes. Multiple fire crews from Avonmouth, Southmead, Yate, Patchway, Kingswood, and Temple rushed to the scene as a fire broke out alongside the collapse.
Major Incident Declared – Specialist Rescue Teams Respond
Specialist Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) teams from Avon Fire and Rescue and South Wales Fire and Rescue are on site tackling the ongoing emergency. Avon and Somerset Police have declared a major incident after a large explosion involving one of the chemical tanks at Wessex Water’s recycling centre.
“Officers remain at the scene and are likely to be for some time as we work together with other agencies in dealing with this major incident,” said Chief Inspector Mark Runacres. “A cordon has been set up—avoid the area where possible to aid emergency services.”
Emergency Services Coordinated Response Underway
The explosion was reported around 11.20am, prompting a rescue operation with five fire appliances and two turntable ladders. Fire Service Area Manager Matt Peskett explained:
“We were called at 11.22am to a large explosion in a warehouse. Crews from multiple stations were mobilised immediately. We are working alongside police and ambulance teams and continue to support our partners.”
South Western Ambulance Service deployed land, air, and specialist paramedic teams to assist at the scene.
Investigation Into Explosion Underway
Police inquiries are in the very early stages as they work to uncover what caused the explosion and silo collapse. The public is urged to steer clear of Kings Weston Lane to help emergency crews manage the scene.
