A terrifying blaze has ripped through a Poundland store on Penge street/" title="High Street" rel="nofollow">High Street, South East London, leaving business owners fearing the building could collapse “at any minute.”
Fire Sparks Evacuations and Road Closures
Emergency services scrambled to the scene at around 4.30am after reports of a huge fire in the two-storey terraced building housing the Poundland. Around 100 firefighters are battling the flames, and about 25 residents have been evacuated to a nearby rest centre as a precaution. Locals have been urged to keep windows and doors shut as thick smoke fills the area.
Penge High Street remains closed, with authorities warning drivers to avoid the area amid ongoing operations.
Firefighting Efforts Underway
Fire crews from Beckenham, Forest Hill, Woodside, West Norwood and surrounding stations continue to fight the blaze. They are using a 32-metre turntable ladder as a water tower, spraying water from above and through the shattered front windows.
All windows on the front have blown out, and the Poundland sign has suffered serious smoke damage. Fire brigade drones provide crucial aerial views to help coordinate the response.
The blaze was brought under control just before 8.50am, but firefighters will stay at the scene all day to tackle hotspots and ensure the fire is completely out.
The cause of the fire is currently unknown and under investigation.
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The incident is causing major disruption in Penge, with the local high street likely to remain closed throughout the day.
