A large explosion at a farm warehouse near the village of Rettendon in Essex prompted the deployment of over 100 firefighters and the declaration of a major incident on the evening of July 24. The blast, caused by an explosion involving fertiliser, sent a towering column of smoke into the sky and was reportedly heard nearly 15 miles away in Southend.

Emergency services responded swiftly to the fire at Highlands Farm, a site comprising multiple businesses and residential properties. Fire crews were working to contain the blaze, which affected several industrial units and a nearby field, while efforts were made to prevent the fire from spreading to adjacent homes.

Essex County Fire and Rescue Service advised residents in the vicinity to stay clear of the area and keep windows and doors closed for safety. Dave Boyd, the fire brigade’s area manager, described the incident as significant but under control, assuring that there was no ongoing danger to the broader public. Officials also confirmed that everyone at the scene remained safe and that local evacuations had been carried out as a precaution.

Eyewitnesses reported the force of the explosion caused substantial disruption. Darren Eva, a nearby resident and chartered surveyor, described experiencing a “massive pressure wave” that shook his house, likening the intensity of the blast to a “nuclear explosion.” Several local officials also commented on the severity of the incident. Sam Journet, leader of the Reform UK group on Basildon borough council, noted that some nearby homes had been affected by the fire, while Danielle Belton, Conservative leader of Rochford District Council, said the blast caused her entire house to shake, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation and expressing hope that no injuries occurred.

The fire crews continued their operations through the night, focusing on containing the blaze and mitigating risks in the area. Further updates are expected as the situation evolves and assessments of the damage are completed.