Huge plumes of smoke erupt over Manchester as cops evacuate homes & warn locals to shut their windows after major fire
HUGE plumes of smoke have been spotted over Manchester as the emergency services tackle a fire.
The blaze is thought to have started in a commercial building on Longden Road in the Gorton area, on the border with Levenshulme.
Emergency crews are currently stationed on Matthews Lane and a large cordon is in place around the area.
A large number of fires response units are at the scene, with police also present.
One eye witness told the Manchester Evening News lots of loud “popping and banging” could be heard in the area from the fire.
Images and footage posted on X, formerly Twitter, show that the smoke can be seen from miles around.
Some residents are believed to have been asked to leave their homes near Matthews Lane.
Others living close to the inferno have been urged to keep their doors and windows shut until it has been brought under control.
A spokesperson for the Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service said: “Firefighters are in attendance at a fire involving a commercial unit on Longden Road, Gorton, which is producing a large amount of smoke.
“Nearby residents are advised to keep their windows and doors closed and to avoid the area. Road closures are in place.”
Greater Manchester Police said: “We are currently assisting our colleagues in Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service after reports of a fire in #Gorton.
“A number of roads have been closed in the area whilst emergency services work and we thank the public for their patience during this time.”