A huge explosion at a warehouse on the Groundwell Industrial Estate in Swindon has sparked a major emergency response, with fire, police and ambulance services working late into the night to contain the situation.
The blast was reported shortly after 7.30pm on Tuesday, sending shockwaves through nearby homes. Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service confirmed that at least 10 fire engines, along with specialist vehicles including an aerial ladder platform and water carriers, were on the scene.
Residents told to stay indoors
Wiltshire Police urged people living near the industrial estate to remain indoors, keep windows closed and avoid the area. Officers said the immediate vicinity was being evacuated as a precaution.
In a statement, the force reassured residents:
“We are working to evacuate the immediate area, but there is no requirement for other nearby residents to leave their homes. Please stay inside and keep your windows closed while emergency services deal with the incident.”
Firefighters working to contain blaze
The fire service confirmed crews were tackling a “large warehouse fire” and were focused on bringing the blaze under control. Thick smoke was seen rising above the industrial estate, and witnesses reported seeing a large fireball when the explosion occurred.
Eyewitnesses describe shock
Local residents described feeling their homes shake from the impact.
Chloe Hackett, who lives nearby, wrote on social media:
“There was a massive explosion and my house literally shook. Huge fireball. I really hope nobody is hurt and that the emergency services stay safe.”
Another resident, Angela Willis, said:
“I wondered what that huge noise was. It shook my doors and I thought someone was trying to break in. I just hope everyone is alright.”
Others posted that the tremors could be felt across Swindon, with one person adding: “Literally felt the whole house shake. Swindon is literally on fire.”
Investigation under way
It is not yet clear what caused the explosion or whether anyone was inside the warehouse at the time. Emergency services have not confirmed any injuries.
The fire service said crews were expected to remain on site for several hours to fully extinguish the blaze and secure the area.
