Huge Fire Rips Through Erith Online Warehouse
Firefighters scrambled to an online shopping warehouse in Erith this lunchtime after a blaze broke out just before 1pm on Friday. Crews from stations across London rushed to the Manorway site to tackle the fierce fire.
Robot Sparks Massive Warehouse Blaze
The fire started when a robot used to pick goods for customers caught fire and malfunctioned in the warehouse grid. Firefighters are battling to isolate the grid, but access is tough as the robots remain on fire.
- 15 fire engines on scene
- 2 fire rescue units deployed
- Aerial ladder in use
- High volume pumps operating
Road closures have been enforced to ensure safety and allow water to be pumped in efficiently. Around 250 staff evacuated before firefighters arrived.
Fire Crews Brace for Long Battle
The blaze is raging on the second floor of the three-storey warehouse. Station Commander Steve Vydelingum said:
“Firefighters are working hard in hot and arduous conditions inside the warehouse. There are no reports of any injuries.”
The fire service was alerted at 12:42pm, with crews from Bexley, Plumstead, Millwall, Lee Green, Greenwich, Eltham, and nearby stations all mobilised.
Sister Warehouse Smashed by Flames Last Year
The disaster brings back memories of a sister site in Andover that was completely gutted by fire last year. Firefighters expect to spend several hours trying to bring the Erith blaze under control. The cause remains unknown.
