Following critical structural failures, hundreds of residents have been evacuated from a 16-floor tower block in Camden, North London. The incident began around 3:30 p.m. on Thursday when a loud noise, initially thought to be an explosion, was reported on the ninth floor. Subsequent investigations revealed that the sound was caused by the collapse of an internal concrete wall within a flat on that floor.

Emergency services, including the London Fire Brigade’s specialist urban search and Rescue teams, were dispatched to the scene. They deployed movement monitoring equipment to assess the stability of the building’s concrete structure. Given the severity of the situation, a major incident was declared.

https:///youtu.be/Girf403_DdM

Residents were evacuated from the building and transported by police minibuses to an emergency rest centre at Swiss Cottage Leisure Centre. A source within the council and a structural engineer indicated that further evacuations might be necessary, depending on assessments conducted at first light. There is concern that a futher exclusion zone may need to be established around the building to prevent injuries in the event of a collapse.

https:///youtu.be/GEeSPo39Qg0

Camden Council has issued a statement expressing their commitment to working with tenants to rehome them if the building is uninhabitable. The Metropolitan Police and the London Fire Brigade have been approached for further comments but have yet to provide additional information.

Residents are advised to stay in contact with local council services for updates and assistance. The community is urged to offer support to those affected during this challenging time.

Further information will be provided as the situation develops.