Explosions heard at UK industrial estate as witnesses 'thought we were at war'

A major fire was reported sending plumes of smoke billowing into the air near a UK industrial estate.

The incident was reported near the Roundthorn Industrial Estate in Wythenshawe, Manchester, today (Sunday, February 23). Witnesses reported hearing loud explosions.

Taking to X, one person wrote: "Big fire at what looks to be Kerry Logistics in Wythenshawe, Manchester." Meanwhile another added: "Woke up this morning and I thought we were at war omg."

"I was wondering what that popping sound was this morning," said a third. Meanwhile, others claimed smoke had covered large parts of Manchester in scenes they described as "worrying".

"What on earth is burning in south Manchester? Smoke cloud covering the most of the west part of the city," said one, adding: "Worrying this is, looks near to the airport." He later added: "Some of the videos showing the flame and noise is frightening."

Dramatic images and videos shared on social media showed large plumes of smoke billowing over the estate near Wythenshawe Hospital. Flames could also be seen and explosions can be heard coming from the site of the incident.

Fire crews arrived on the scene shortly after 8.15am on Sunday morning. 10 "fire appliances" were called, as were vehicles and personnel from North West Ambulance Service. Several nearby properties were evacuated.

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service states the "majority" of the fire has now been extinguished. "The incident is now being scaled back," a statement shared on X said. "Four fire engines remain at the scene."

Police also assisted at the scene. Witnesses have reported seeing a large police presence at the Roundthorn Industrial Estate this morning, Manchester Evening News reports.

Greater Manchester Police (GMP) confirmed there are no casualties. In a post to X (formerly Twitter), GMFRS advised those who had not been evacuated from their homes to keep windows and doors closed and for people to avoid the area. "Firefighters are currently tackling a fire involving heavy goods vehicles on Ennis Close, Manchester," the post said.

"Nearby residents are advised to keep their windows and doors closed and to avoid the area."

A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) said the fire had "involved heavy goods vehicles".

A spokesperson for GMFRS said: “Shortly after 8.15am on Sunday 23 February, 10 fire appliances from across Greater Manchester were called to attend a fire involving heavy goods vehicles on Ennis Close, Manchester.

“Crews arrived quickly and are working hard to extinguish the fire. Several nearby properties have been evacuated. Greater Manchester Police and North West Ambulance Service are also in attendance.”