A raging inferno has swept through a number of factory units in Wolverhampton as " explosions" have reportedly been heard.
West Midlands Fire Service have declared it a major incident, with more than 100 firefighters and 16 fire engines rushing to the scene at Horseley Fields, shortly after 9pm on Monday (December 5).
Images of the scene show flames engulfing the buildings and thick black smoke rising into the night sky, with the emergency services urging the general public to avoid the area.
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Local residents said they heard "loud bangs" and one said that it sounded like "explosions".
The fire service said in a statement: "Just after 9pm on December 5, 2022, we were called to a large fire at a derelict factory at Lower Horseley Fields, Wolverhampton. The entire factory, measuring approximately 15m x 30m, is involved in fire.
"Four fire engines initially responded. Our response was quickly increased due to the scale of the fire, and we now have more than 20 of our appliances in attendance. Two hydraulic platforms are also being utilised as our crews continue to tackle the blaze.
"Just after 10pm, we declared this a major incident, due to the size of the incident and its proximity to the nearby railway line and houses. If you live in the local area, please keep windows and doors closed.
"We are working with other agencies, such as Police, Ambulance and Network Rail, as we continue to deal with this incident."
In a later update they said: "We can confirm that this fire involves multiple factory units, measuring a total of approximately 200m x 200m. All nearby trains have been stopped.
"Our crews are tackling the blaze from multiple angles, and we have more than 100 firefighters in attendance. Our High Volume Pumping Unit (HVP) is pumping water from a nearby canal.
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"A thermal imaging drone has been brought into use to provide us with an aerial view of the incident, helping inform operational decisions."
The West Midlands Ambulance Service also rushed to the scene and issued a statement on Twitter, saying: "We are currently at the scene of a major fire in the Lower Horsley Fields area of #Wolverhampton.
"We have specialist resources at the scene supporting @WestMidsFire including @WMASHART."
"Please ensure you keep all windows and doors shut if you live nearby and avoid the area."
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