Massive Blaze Erupts on East Ham High Street – 125 Firefighters Battle Flames
Inferno Hits Shop and Flats Above
A massive fire tore through a shop with flats above at 126-130 High Street North, East Ham on Thursday evening, May 29, 2025. London Fire Brigade launched a major emergency response, sending 20 fire engines and around 125 firefighters to fight the blaze.
Firefighters tackled flames engulfing half of the mid-terraced commercial building, using main jets, hose reels, and a 32-metre turntable ladder to control the inferno and protect nearby homes.
Blaze Details and Response
- First call: 7:02pm BST
- Location: 126–130 High Street North, East Ham, E6
- Property: Shop with residential flats above
- Status: Half the shop is ablaze
- Fire crews deployed: 20 engines, 125 firefighters from East Ham, Plaistow, Stratford and nearby stations
- Casualties: No injuries confirmed so far
- Public advisory: Avoid the area and keep windows and doors closed due to heavy smoke
Commander Urges Public to Stay Clear
Station Commander Darren McTernan said: “Crews are working hard to bring this fire under control. High Street North will remain closed while the incident is ongoing. Please avoid the area and keep windows and doors closed due to large amounts of smoke.”
Local Impact and Safety Warnings
High Street North remains shut to all traffic and pedestrians. Thick smoke is spreading across East Ham, forcing local businesses and residents to stay indoors with minimal ventilation.
Control Officers received 12 emergency calls soon after the fire broke out, prompting rapid mobilisation of firefighting crews.
Investigation Underway
The cause of the fire remains unknown. Fire investigators will launch a full probe once the scene is safe.
