Massive Fire Erupts at Erith Online Shopping Warehouse
Flames tore through an Erith online shopping warehouse this lunchtime, sparking a major emergency response. Firefighters scrambled to the Manorway site shortly before 1pm after a blaze broke out inside the building.
Robot Malfunction Sparks Warehouse Inferno
The fire started when one of the warehouse’s robots—used to pick goods for customers—malfunctioned and caught fire. Crews are struggling to isolate the power grid and access the smouldering machines, making the operation even tougher.
Massive Response and Road Closures in Place
- Fifteen fire engines, two rescue units, an aerial ladder, and a high volume pump have been deployed.
- Firefighters from Bexley, Plumstead, Millwall, Lee Green, Greenwich, Eltham, and surrounding stations are battling the blaze.
- Several roads have been shut to ensure safety and allow water supply lines.
- The warehouse’s second floor is ablaze, with crews working in tough conditions to contain the fire.
Staff Evacuated; No Injuries Reported
“Firefighters are working hard in hot and arduous conditions inside the warehouse. Around 250 staff evacuated before the Brigade arrived. There are no reports of any injuries,” said Station Commander Steve Vydelingum.
The fire broke out at 12:42pm and is still ongoing. Authorities have yet to determine the exact cause of the blaze. This comes after a similar warehouse in Andover was gutted by fire earlier this year.
Fire crews are expected to be on site for several hours as they battle to bring the inferno under control.
