A massive explosion triggered a major fire this afternoon at the Detling Aerodrome Industrial Estate near Maidstone. The violent blast caused a large fire that quickly engulfed the site, sending towering plumes of smoke into the sky and prompting road closures along with urgent warnings for local residents.
The busy A249 Detling Hill was shut in both directions between Scragged Oak Road and Rumstead Lane from around 2:10pm as firefighters worked to tackle the fierce blaze. Although the road has since reopened, authorities are urging motorists to drive with caution in the area.
Residents reported hearing a loud bang just before thick smoke began billowing from an outbuilding within the industrial estate. Emergency services confirmed that an explosion occurred in this structure, located near the busy A249 artery.
Firefighters responded swiftly with significant resources on scene, including six fire engines, a bulk water carrier, and a cutting-edge firefighting robot (Uncrewed Ground Vehicle). Kent Police officers, South East Coast Ambulance Service (SECAmb), and electrical safety engineers from UK Power Networks also attended the incident.
Kent Fire and Rescue Service stated: “Crews are working hard to bring the fire under control. We’re asking people to avoid the area and to share this message with anyone nearby who may not have internet access.” Firefighters battled the inferno using breathing apparatus, powerful main jet hoses, and advanced robotic assistance to gain the upper hand.
Nearby residents around Detling Hill have been advised to keep windows and doors firmly shut due to heavy smoke drifting through the area.
At this stage, it remains unclear if anyone was injured in the blast and fire. Emergency teams remain at the scene as investigations into the cause of the explosion continue. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
Originally published by UKNIP.
