Explosions were reportedly heard near the Old Bailey court today, leading to the evacuation of the premises as smoke erupted from windows. Firefighters rushed to the scene beside the central London criminal court shortly before 11 am to address the situation.

According to witnesses, Warwick Lane, the location of the incident, was filled with heavy smoke as emergency responders arrived to assess the issue. Trials at the Old Bailey were disrupted when power cuts occurred in the courtrooms following the suspected fire, believed to be caused by an electrical fault.

Recorder of London Judge Mark Lucraft, presiding over a trial, shared details of the incident, stating, “What most of us heard was a loud bang and some black billowing smoke. Power went off in the building. As far as I’m aware it’s the substation situated in the Old Bailey building. We are waiting for UK power to come and see before the fire brigade can go in.

The London Fire Brigade released a statement confirming their response to reports of smoke emanating from a building on Warwick Lane. Efforts to contain the situation were underway as firefighters worked to address the issue.

Reports suggest that neighbouring buildings also experienced power cuts, compounding the disruption caused by the incident.

As investigations continue into the cause of the explosions and smoke, updates will be provided as they become available.