Fire and Explosions Near London's Canning Town Area Shock Public, Police Calls it 'Pre-Planned'

London: The Canning Town area of London was engulfed in smoke and flames as an uncontrolled fire erupted on a film set, destroying a van and damaging two other vehicles near the O2 Arena.

Twenty-five firefighters and four fire engines were dispatched to the scene near Dock Road and Trinity Buoy Wharf in Silvertown at 7:51 p.m. on Saturday to tackle the blaze.

The fire caused considerable panic among residents, many of whom took to social media to report the noise and smoke billowing across the Thames towards the venue. Witnesses also reported hearing several consecutive explosions.

Sharing a post on X, the London Fire Brigade said, "The fire in Silvertown followed a controlled explosion at a film set which spread out of control. Firefighters worked quickly to extinguish the fire, which is now under control. Crews will remain on scene for the remainder of the evening." In another post, the Brigade confirmed, “The fire at an open-air yard in #Silvertown is now under control.”

The Newham MPS | North East BCU also addressed concerns, posting, "We are aware of reports of explosions being heard in the vicinity of the #O2 in #Greenwich. This was part of a pre-planned filming event in the Canning Town #E16 area. There is no risk to the public."
Authorities have confirmed that there is no threat to the public.

The fire took place in an open-air yard on Dock Road, which is also near London’s cable car link across the River Thames.