A fire breakout at an electrical substation in Hayes, West London, has led to the closure of Heathrow Airport throughout Friday, causing significant disruptions to flights and travellers.
The fire, which broke out on Wednesday night, resulted in two explosions and a massive blaze, prompting the evacuation of nearly 5,000 homes and the closure of several schools in the area.
Heathrow Airport, the UK’s busiest airport, has warned passengers of “significant disruption” and advised them not to travel to the airport until it reopens.
At least 1,351 flights have been affected, with some aircraft already in the air when the closure was announced.
The cause of the fire is still unknown, and an investigation is underway.
Energy Secretary Ed Miliband described the incident as “unprecedented” and stated that the government would want to understand the causes and “what lessons, if any, it can teach us”.
Residents in the affected area have been advised to keep doors and windows closed due to the significant amount of smoke.
Ten fire engines and about 70 firefighters have been deployed to tackle the blaze, which is now under control.
