The fire at an electricity substation has caused a blackout in west London, leaving thousands of homes and Heathrow Airport without power. Heathrow, one of the world’s busiest airports, has suspended operations until midnight on Friday, March 21, causing major travel disruptions. According to Flightradar24, 120 aircraft will either be diverted mid-air or returned to their original destinations. Today’s total closure of London Heathrow Airport will affect at least 1,351 flights to/from LHR. It doesn’t include any flights that might be cancelled or delayed.

London Fire Brigade has responded to the fire at the electricity substation and as a precaution, has evacuated approximately 150 people from the area. It said that a transformer inside the substation caught fire, and 10 fire engines and around 70 firefighters at Nestles Avenue in Hayes are working to contain and extinguish the blaze.

“Please continue to keep windows & doors closed due to smoke & avoid the area. This will be a prolonged incident, with crews remaining on scene throughout the night,” London Fire Brigade said in a post on social media.

Catch live updates on London Heathrow Airport shut down here.

“Due to a fire at an electrical substation supplying the airport, Heathrow is experiencing a significant power outage,” Heathrow Airport said on Twitter (now X). 

It added, “To maintain the safety of our passengers and colleagues, Heathrow will be closed until 23h59 on 21 March. Passengers are advised not to travel to the airport and should contact their airline for further information. We apologise for the inconvenience.”

Visuals of the massive fire that caused power outages and blackouts at several places in west London have taken over social media platforms.

This grim video shows a blackout in the west London area.

Another shows the fire that rocked London.

Some more visuals from London

“This is a highly visible and significant incident, and our firefighters are working tirelessly in challenging conditions to bring the fire under control as swiftly as possible,” The Guardian quoted Assistant commissioner Pat Goulbourne as saying. 

He added, “The fire has caused a power outage affecting a large number of homes and local businesses, and we are working closely with our partners to minimise disruption.”

He also urged people to avoid travelling to Hayes, Hounslow and surrounding areas. “This will be a prolonged incident, with crews remaining on scene throughout the night. As we head into the morning, disruption is expected to increase, and we urge people to avoid the area wherever possible.”