London Explosion at Film Set Near O2 Arena Controlled Blast Causes Panic
London was shaken on Saturday evening by a series of explosions near the O2 Arena, described by witnesses as a “thunderclap” that echoed across the city. The blasts, which occurred around 7:30 pm on Dock Road in Silvertown, sent thick smoke billowing over the popular event venue, alarming residents of North Greenwich and the Isle of Dogs. What was initially feared to be a dangerous incident turned out to be a controlled explosion on a film set for an unnamed production, but it quickly spiralled out of control, requiring the urgent attention of 25 firefighters.
The London Fire Brigade confirmed that the fire began during a planned explosion, but it rapidly spread, destroying a van and damaging a car and a lorry. Witnesses described the chaos, with one saying it was “the biggest explosion they’d ever seen.” Residents and passers-by were left rattled as emergency services rushed to the scene just before 8 pm.
Several witnesses reported seeing a BBC truck positioned near the blast site for approximately two weeks, adding to the confusion. One onlooker recounted hearing a “triple explosion” and feeling the tremors from the blast near the Silvertown Tunnel. “It sounded like an earthquake,” said Ryan O’Sullivan, who lives in a flat nearby. The loud detonations were unexpected, with many believing it to be a serious incident rather than a controlled event. “We could have been warned,” he added, reflecting the sentiments of many locals caught off guard by the sudden and alarming noise.
The Metropolitan Police later clarified that the explosions were part of a pre-planned filming event in the Canning Town area and assured the public that there was no risk. Despite this, the impact of the blasts, with smoke visibly crossing the River Thames and shaking nearby homes, left a lasting impression on those who witnessed the scene. “It was insane,” O’Sullivan added.
For further information on local safety updates and guidelines, visit the London Fire Brigade’s official website.
