Huge blast rocks homes and sends massive plume of smoke into sky as fire crews rush to battle blaze

A HUGE blast has rocked homes sending a huge plume of smoke billowing into the sky as firefighters race to tackle a blaze. Locals have been warned to avoid the area and to keep their windows and doors shut as the fire service battle the inferno in Essex. A huge blaze has erupted in Essex with locals saying they heard an ‘explosion’ Credit: X Some captured the blast from miles away as a huge plume of smoke billows into the sky Credit: X Essex County Fire and Rescue Service said they were currently at the scene of a “large industrial unit fire” in Southend Road. Local residents took to social media after reportedly hearing an “explosion” in the area, claiming that they felt the shockwave from the blast in their homes. Sign up for The Sun newsletter Thank you! Cllr Danielle Belton posted a video to Facebook showing a huge plume of smoke pouring into the sky from miles away. She said: “Did anyone else hear or see the explosion a few minutes ago? Essex Fire Service say they are at the scene of an ‘industrial unit fire’ Credit: Facebook The smoke has been spotted from miles away Credit: Alamy “My whole house shook, it appears to be around Rettendon Way. “It looks extremely serious, I really hope no one is hurt.” Other footage circulating appears to show black smoke coming from the area before a huge explosion as a fireball erupts. One video appears to show a family sitting in their living room when they hear the blast. Most read in The Sun A spokesperson for Essex County Fire and Rescue Service said: “We’re currently at the scene of large industrial unit fire in Southend Road between East Hanningfield and Rettendon. “If you live or are travelling nearby, please keep your windows and doors closed. “Please avoid the area if you can.” The Sun has contacted Essex Police and East of England Ambulance Service for comment.