Over 70 firefighters and officers were called to a fire in a flat in a care home on Connington Crescent, Chingford.
12 people left the block before the arrival of the Brigade and sadly, a woman was confirmed dead at the scene. Another 16 people evacuated from neighbouring properties before the Brigade arrived.
Part of the ground and first floor were damaged by fire and the second floor and roof were completely destroyed in the three storey block.
Station Manager Keith Williams who was at the scene said:
“Firefighters worked hard to contain the spread of the fire which destroyed the roof. Crews expect to be here into the day, tackling hot spots.”
10 fire engines and an aerial ladder platform from stations including Woodford, Chingford, Walthamstow, Enfield and Leytonston fire stations were in attendance.
The Brigade was called at 0214 and the fire was under control by 0524.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.