Story perspectives

Scrapyard fire in Thornwood contained after explosions stay put

By Drooid · Sep 19, 2026, 4:19 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

Essex County Fire and Rescue Service responded to a scrapyard fire in Thornwood, Epping at about 07:23 BST.
Around 40 firefighters, including Hertfordshire crews, tackled the blaze.
Residents were advised to keep windows and doors closed due to gases.
Explosions were expected but stayed contained within the site.
Fire service said people should not be alarmed by the explosions.

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Story summary

Essex County Fire and Rescue Service responded to a scrapyard fire in Thornwood, Epping at about 07:23 BST.
Around 40 firefighters, including Hertfordshire crews, tackled the blaze.
Residents were advised to keep windows and doors closed due to gases.
Explosions were expected but stayed contained within the site.
Fire service said people should not be alarmed by the explosions.