East London fire forces evacuations, closes Overground line

A major fire in east London prompted the evacuation of hundreds of residents and caused significant travel disruption after it tore through a house, gardens, and a railway embankment on Sunday, July 12. The blaze, which broke out near Vallentin Road and Shernhall Street in Walthamstow around 6:30 p.m., was fought by approximately 125 firefighters using 20 fire engines. No injuries were reported.

The London Fire Brigade brought the fire under control by 10:30 p.m. after an intense response. Officials said one house was destroyed by flames, a second home suffered damage to a rear extension, and the gardens of about 30 properties were affected. Crews also worked to cool ten gas cylinders amid fears they could explode. Assistant Commissioner Tom Goodall praised firefighters for preventing the blaze from spreading to more homes under hot and arduous conditions.

The fire also ignited a railway embankment, leading to the suspension of the London Overground's Weaver line between Chingford and Hackney Downs. Transport for London said urgent repairs to the damaged track would keep the line closed throughout Monday, July 13, causing severe delays. Passengers on stopped trains were...