A significant factory fire in Wolverhampton has prompted a major emergency response, with residents warned about dense, choking smoke spreading across the area. The blaze broke out in the early hours of Wednesday morning, leading to widespread disruption and health advisories.
Emergency Response and Scene Details
West Midlands Fire Service was mobilised to Sunbeam Street in the Blakenhall area shortly after 7:30am on Wednesday, 14 January. The incident, located near the junction with Upper Villiers Street, saw a substantial deployment of resources to bring the situation under control.
Eight fire engines were dispatched to the scene, supported by a 4x4 brigade response vehicle and a hydraulic aerial platform. Crews from fire stations across the region, including Bilston, Fallings Park, Tipton, Willenhall, Haden Cross, Wednesbury, Dudley, and Walsall, are in attendance. The first crew arrived at the incident within an impressive three minutes of being mobilised.
Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus are tackling the blaze inside the factory building using hose reel jets.
Public Health Warning and Disruption
The fire has generated a large plume of thick, black smoke, which has been visible from locations across Wolverhampton, including from New Cross Hospital. One local resident described the severe impact, stating, "The area is full of smoke. It’s hard to breathe."
Authorities have issued a direct plea to the public. A spokesperson for West Midlands Fire Service said: "Please avoid the area whilst we work at the scene as there is significant disruption. If you live or work in the area, please close your doors and windows."
Road closures have been implemented on Upper Villiers Street in both directions between Marston Road and Sunbeam Street. Motorists and the public are advised to avoid the vicinity of St Luke's Church.
Ongoing Incident and Safety Advice
This remains a live incident, with emergency services working diligently to extinguish the fire and mitigate its effects. The primary concerns are the safety of personnel on the ground and the health of local residents due to the poor air quality caused by the smoke.
The key advice for the public remains:
- Avoid Sunbeam Street and Upper Villiers Street completely.
- Keep all doors and windows closed if you are nearby.
- Follow updates from official sources like West Midlands Fire Service and West Midlands Roads for travel information.
The cause of the fire is not yet known, and a full investigation is likely to commence once the blaze is fully extinguished.
