Newhaven fire – Sussex port ‘explosion’ sparks huge blaze as black smoke seen for miles around
A ‘MAMMOTH explosion’ at a Sussex port has sparked a huge blaze – as witnesses miles away from the fire report sightings of plumes of dark smoke.
Firefighters rushed to reports of an inferno at a warehouse in Newhaven, East Sussex at 9.30am today.
The fire is so fierce smoke can be seen by people enjoying today’s sunshine on the beach in Brighton, some ten miles away.
Fire crews evacuated the building. No injuries have been reported.
However, people living near the blaze have been urged to keep windows closed.
The fire broke out on ‘Scorcher Saturday’, when temperatures are expected to reach up to 37C.
District councillor Jay Brewerton said: “Mammoth explosion and fire at Newhaven Industrial Estate.”
She said smoke had been seen “along the coast”.
A witness who shared footage from the scene tweeted: “There was a big explosion near the Port in Newhaven.”
Another said it was “raining ash”.
Officials at the East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service said: “An industrial building at Beach Road is alight.
“More than 80 999 calls have been made to us.
“The building has been evacuated.”
The cause of the fire is not yet known.
Firefighters say they’re likely to be battling the flames “for some time” on what could be one of the hottest days of the year so far.
Sussex Police say fire crews are dealing with a “large” blaze.
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They advised residents to keep doors and windows closed.
Anyone who had been planning a visit today should avoid the area completely, officials say.
“We know the weather’s hot, but the smoke is very unpleasant and may affect you,” the spokesperson said.