A commercial unit blaze is sending thick smoke across Manchester, with a raging fire visible for miles.
A large plume of thick smoke is currently billowing over central Manchester as a blaze has erupted at a commercial unit on Longden Road in Gorton, south-east of the city. The smoke can be seen from various parts of Manchester, with many residents reporting it online.
Greater Manchester Police have set up a cordon on Matthews Lane, and some nearby roads are now closed as emergency services battle to contain the fire. There are also unconfirmed reports that some people living near Matthews Lane have been evacuated as a precaution.
People have taken to social media to share images and videos of the dense smoke cloud, with some even mistaking it for an incoming storm due to its scale and thickness.
Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service has advised residents in the vicinity to keep their windows and doors shut to avoid inhaling the smoke and to avoid the area altogether if possible.
A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service said: “We are currently dealing with a large fire at a commercial property on Longden Road in Gorton. Residents nearby are urged to keep windows and doors closed, and we ask everyone to avoid the area while our crews work to bring the blaze under control.
The fire service is working to extinguish the flames, and there are no reports of injuries at this time. It is unclear what caused the fire, and an investigation will be launched once it has been brought under control.
Authorities are continuing to monitor the situation, and local residents are urged to stay updated on further announcements.
