Huge fire sends smoke billowing into air following reports of ‘explosion’

Emergency services are on the scene tackling a huge fire in Wythenshawe this evening (February 18).

Fire crews were called to Roundthorn Industrial Estate shortly before 9.30pm, following what eyewitnesses describe as ‘a loud explosion’.

Huge flames could be seen rising from an industrial unit, sending large plumes of smoke billowing into the air.

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According to reports, this was blowing from the scene on Tilson Road in the direction of Wythenshawe Hospital.

Video from the area shows a fire well alight, with smoke pouring into the air.

The fire service said five engines are at the scene of the blaze, which started at about 9.20pm.

It spread to the first and second floor of the industrial premises.

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A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) said: “At around 9.20pm this evening (February 18) we received reports of a fire at an industrial unit on Tilson Road, Manchester.

“Five fire engines from Wythenshawe, Altrincham, Cheadle and Whitehill fire stations are currently in attendance at the scene, as well as an aerial platform from Stretford.

“Crews arrived quickly and gained access to the property where they found a fire spreading to the first and second floor of the premises.

“Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus are currently using two hose reels and ground monitors to tackle the blaze and prevent further spread.”