A "significant" blaze at a large industrial unit in Essex caused supplies of fertiliser to explode as more than 100 firefighters tackled the flames.

Fire crews were called to the blaze on Southend Road, between East Hanningfield and Rettendon, at 4.50pm on Friday.

People living near the site were told to keep their windows and doors closed, and a "major incident" was declared as thick black smoke engulfed the surrounding area.

A number of industrial units and a field caught alight, and while fire crews were at the scene, fertiliser in one of the units exploded.

In an update at 9.30pm, Essex County Fire and Rescue Service said the fire had been brought under control and there had been no reports of any injuries.

Nearby residents have been evacuated and some of the firefighters are expected to be at the scene overnight.

The service's area manager Dave Bond said: "This is a significant fire but we have it under control and there is no wider risk to members of the public.

"A number of industrial units have caught alight as well as a field and crews have been working to prevent the fire spreading to nearby houses.

"While on the scene, fertiliser inside one of the units exploded and residents across the county have reported hearing and feeling it. This is why we declared a major incident and I want to reassure our residents that there is no wider risk to the public at this time."

Mr Bond added: "Everybody at the scene is safe, residents nearby have been evacuated while we put the fire out and Southend Road is currently closed to allow us more space to work safely.

"We expect to be at the scene throughout the night. It is producing lots of smoke so we recommend keeping your windows and doors shut if you live nearby.

"Roads will remain closed. Please avoid the area."

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Colin Neale Jr was driving along the A13 near Dagenham when he saw the plumes of smoke.

He told Sky News earlier that, as he drove closer, he realised how big the fire was and decided to send his drone up over the fields.

Mr Neale said the drone showed "multiple fields" had caught fire and it appeared two industrial complexes were affected.

Local councillor Danielle Belton told Sky News: "The incident has really shook the community, the explosion was heard and felt for miles surrounding the site.

"As always out fire and rescue service have shown an incredible display of bravery and dedication to getting the situation under control and to protect those closest to the incident."

A spokesman for East of England Ambulance Service said its hazardous area response team had gone to the scene.

(c) Sky News 2026: Explosion as more than 100 firefighters tackle blaze at industrial site