Massive Fire Breaks Out on Portsdown Hill, Smoke Visible from Isle of Wight
Blaze Erupts at Waste Site on Portsmouth Outskirts
Firefighters from across Hampshire have been scrambled to tackle a major blaze burning through L and S Waste Management on Portsdown Hill, just outside Portsmouth. Thick black smoke has billowed high, visible as far away as the Isle of Wight and blanketing parts of Fareham and Portchester in a choking haze.
Smoke Clouds M27 but Motorway Remains Open
Crews from Cosham, Havant, Southsea, and Hayling Island are battling the well-developed fire in tandem with Hampshire Constabulary. Police are monitoring the situation closely, especially as smoke could impact visibility along the busy M27 motorway – though it remains open for now.
No Injuries Reported, But Locals Urged to Stay Indoors
Thankfully, no injuries have been reported at this stage. However, residents in the surrounding areas have been warned to keep windows and doors shut as a precaution against the thick smoke drifting through their neighbourhoods.
Firefighters Brace for Overnight Battle; Cause Under Investigation
A Hampshire Fire and Rescue spokeswoman said the emergency call came through at 6.50pm on Friday. Fire crews are expected to remain on site throughout the night to bring the inferno under control. An investigation into what sparked the blaze will follow once the flames are quenched.
