Blaze Rips Through Maida Vale Flats, 100 Residents Evacuated
A massive fire ripped through a West London electrical substation early this morning, leaving four flats uninhabitable and forcing around 100 residents to flee their homes.
Emergency Services Battle Huge Maida Vale Fire
London Fire Brigade (LFB) scrambled to Aberdeen Place near St John’s Wood at 5:30am today (April 29) after a catastrophic blaze broke out in a substation on Victoria Passage. More than 100 firefighters tackled the inferno, responding to over 170 emergency calls. The fire spread quickly towards nearby residential flats, prompting the declaration of a major incident. Luckily, the situation was brought under control by 10:53am.
Residents Evacuated, Relief Centres Opened
The fire forced a swift evacuation of roughly 100 people. Many were taken to Wharncliffe Gardens Community Centre, while families from the damaged flats face an uncertain night. Westminster City Council is supporting 40 displaced residents and has set up two rest centres to aid those affected.
Assistant Commissioner Pat Goulbourne said: “The fire produced a significant amount of smoke. Residents are advised to keep windows and doors closed. Crews are using foam to suppress the flames at the transformer.”
Eyewitnesses Recall Terrifying Moments
Local resident Adele Dillon, 54, recalled waking up to the fiery glow outside her window:
“At first, I thought it was my garden fence on fire, but then I saw flames licking the side of the house. It was terrifying.”
Another neighbour, Alice Bazzi, said her vulnerable mother detected the fire first and raised the alarm:
“My mum woke me up, saying there was a crackling noise. We later saw smoke filling the area.”
Residents praised the firefighters despite some frustration over evacuation delays.
Official Statements and Safety Warnings
UK Power Networks confirmed the fire was caused by a fault in substation equipment but stressed there were no power outages reported. The Met Police remain on scene assisting ongoing investigations.
“We remain on scene supporting the London Fire Brigade and working with partners to determine the cause.” – Metropolitan Police
Authorities continue advising locals to keep windows closed due to lingering smoke while crews stay on site to ensure safety.
Fire Facts at a Glance
- Location: Aberdeen Place, St John’s Wood / Maida Vale, West London
- Time of Fire: 5:30am, April 29, 2025
- Evacuations: Approx. 100 residents displaced
- Damage: Four flats declared uninhabitable
- Power: No outages reported
- Emergency Response: 100+ firefighters, London Ambulance Service, Met Police
