Fifteen fire engines and around 100 firefighters have attended a fire at an electrical substation on Aberdeen Place in Maida Vale.
Firefighters discovered an electrical transformer that was alight. Although this fire is now under control, firefighters are continuing to work to fully extinguish it.
The fire has also affected the roof and a flat of a neighbouring residential block. Firefighters have worked professionally to contain this part of the fire and bring it under control. A flat in another building was also partially damaged.
Around 100 people have been evacuated from surrounding buildings and a rest centre has been set up by the local authority. There have been no reports of any injuries at this time. UK Power Networks confirms the fire has not interrupted power supplies.
Assistant Commissioner Pat Goulbourne said: "This was a very visible fire with Control Officers taking over 170 calls. The fire has also been producing a lot of smoke and although the amount of smoke has significantly reduced, we continue to advise residents to keep their windows and doors closed at this time. One of our scientific advisors is on site and is closely monitoring the air quality in the area. Around 100 residents were evacuated from their homes but some have now returned.
"Due to the fire involving a high-profile piece of infrastructure that was affecting nearby residential buildings, a major incident was declared by London Fire Brigade at 0826. I am pleased to report that this declaration was stood down at 1053.
"However, firefighting operations will continue for some time on the transformer at the substation. To combat this technically complex fire, crews have been deploying foam to suppress the flames. The foam works by smothering the fire and cutting off its fuel source, preventing reignition."
One of the Brigade's 32-metre turntable ladders is being used at the scene to tackle the fire from above. The Brigade’s drone team is also in attendance helping to provide the Incident Commander with a with a greater situational awareness of the incident.
The Brigade was called at 0529 and is still on scene. Fire crews from Paddington, Euston, North Kensington, Willesden, West Hampstead, Soho and surrounding fire stations have been in attendance.
This will be a protracted incident and firefighters are expected to remain on scene throughout the day.
The Brigade is working closely with UK Power Networks and the Metropolitan Police to investigate the cause of the fire.