Manchester fire: Huge flames engulf building as billows of smoke fill sky
A fire has broken out in Manchester this morning, sending flames and smoke shooting into the air over a large area of the city.
Dramatic footage of the blaze emerged online, with images and videos showing the fire raging behind what appears to be a retail premises in Levenshulme in the city’s southeast as horrified bystanders look on.
Further images from much further away show the smoke billowing over the city for miles – as well as a large-scale emergency services presence on the scene.
On social media, locals remarked on the sheer scale of the fire, with one claiming they could see the smoke over five kilometres away in Didsbury.
Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service said firefighters were in action at a commercial unit on Longden Road in Gorton – and have closed off local roads and told residents to shut their windows and doors.
A statement from the service said: “Firefighters are in attendance at a fire involving a commercial unit on Longden Road, Gorton, which is producing a large amount of smoke.
“Nearby residents are advised to keep their windows and doors closed and to avoid the area. Road closures are in place.”
Local reports said that residents on Matthews Lane – where cranes, police and firefighters have been seen – have been told to leave their homes altogether.
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Just under half an hour after the fire service confirmed they were at the scene, Greater Manchester Police said: “We are currently assisting our colleagues in Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service after reports of a fire in Gorton.
“A number of roads have been closed in the area whilst emergency services work and we thank the public for their patience during this time.”
More to follow…