About 100 firefighters raced to tackle a massive fire engulfing a shop on Perry Vale, Forest Hill, southeast London. The blaze erupted at around 6:30pm, triggering 49 emergency calls. The ground-floor commercial property is ablaze, with residential flats above, raising fears for residents’ safety.

A 25-metre safety cordon is in place, and locals are urged to steer clear as thick smoke chokes the area. Authorities have warned residents to keep windows and doors shut to avoid harmful smoke inhalation.

London Fire Brigade Launches Full-Scale Assault

The London Fire Brigade’s massive response involves crews from Forest Hill, Lewisham, Beckenham, West Norwood, and nearby stations. They’ve deployed a 32-metre turntable ladder to soak the flames from above.

With 15 fire engines and around 100 firefighters at the scene, this is among the capital’s largest fire emergencies. Firefighters focus on preventing the flames spreading to neighbouring buildings while ensuring the flats above have been evacuated safely.

Smoke Warnings and Traffic Mayhem

Thick, acrid smoke is visible for miles. Fire officials urged locals to keep all windows and doors closed. “The smoke plume is intense, and the acrid smell is spreading across nearby streets,” said a London Fire Brigade spokesperson.

Meanwhile, Perry Vale – a key route through Forest Hill – is gridlocked as emergency services block the road. Motorists are told to avoid the area altogether. Bus services face diversions, and surrounding side roads are crawling with cars trying to dodge the chaos.

Cause Unknown as Investigation Looms

The blaze’s origin remains a mystery. The London Fire Brigade confirmed investigators will probe the cause once fire crews bring the situation under control.

With commercial premises below and residential flats above, there are concerns about possible sources including electrical faults or cooking mishaps.

Community in Shock as Emergency Operation Continues

Forest Hill’s tight-knit community is rattled by the dramatic sight of 15 fire engines hammering the scene. Local shops nearby have shut early due to smoke and road closures, hurting small businesses.

With residents displaced, emergency housing is likely to be arranged as authorities assess the damage. Firefighters are expected to stay through the night to prevent flare-ups and ensure the building is structurally safe.

The Perry Vale fire also echoes the area’s historic ties to London’s fire service. The old Perry Vale Fire Station, a Grade II listed building nearby, recalls a long history of firefighting in the area.

London Fire Brigade urges anyone with information or who witnessed the fire’s early moments to come forward as the investigation ramps up.