Essex fire and explosion hospitalizes 20 firefighters

A major fire and explosion at an industrial site in Essex has resulted in 20 firefighters being hospitalized and the destruction of multiple emergency vehicles. The incident, which occurred on Southend Road between East Hanningfield and Rettendon on the afternoon of July 24, prompted a large-scale emergency response and was declared a major incident.

According to Essex County Fire and Rescue Service, the initial fire broke out at approximately 4:50 p.m. on Friday. While crews were battling the blaze, which involved several industrial units and a field, an explosion occurred inside one unit containing fertilizer. The blast was reported to have been heard up to 15 miles away, with residents describing loud booms and feeling shockwaves. The force of the explosion led emergency services to declare a major incident at 5:46 p.m.

Chief Fire Officer Rick Hylton confirmed that 20 firefighters were taken to hospital following the incident. Four sustained minor injuries, while the others underwent precautionary assessments, including checks for hearing loss. All have since been discharged. The intensity of the fire and explosion destroyed three fire engines and two officer cars that were...