Glasgow Tesco evacuated as huge blaze sparks 'total panic' and thick smoke pours out

A Tesco store in Glasgow was evacuated after a fire broke out in its underground car park, prompting “total panic” among shoppers and staff. The incident occurred on Friday afternoon, around 4.21pm, near the Maryhill Road location, according to reports from local media. Thick black smoke poured from the car park entrance, drawing attention from nearby residents and prompting emergency services to respond swiftly. Witnesses described the scene as chaotic, with customers and employees being led out of the store as firefighters worked to extinguish the flames. A local resident, Ryan, 26, an energy consultant living opposite the store, recounted seeing the smoke before witnessing the vehicle catch fire. He noted that the car appeared to be electric, though he could not confirm the cause of the ignition. “It was total panic,” Ryan said, describing the moment he saw the smoke and later observed the evacuation process unfolding. Emergency responders, including two units from the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, arrived at the scene shortly after the initial call. Police were also present, helping to manage the area and ensure public safety. The car park was cordoned off to prevent further risk to bystanders and to allow firefighters to operate safely. While the exact cause of the fire remains under investigation, officials have confirmed that the blaze originated from a vehicle parked within the store’s premises. The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service issued a statement confirming the incident, stating they received the call at 4.21pm and deployed two appliances to the site. As of the latest update, crews remain on location working to fully contain the situation. No injuries have been reported, though the extent of damage to the property and surrounding infrastructure is yet to be assessed. Local authorities have begun reviewing procedures related to fire safety in retail environments, particularly concerning vehicles stored in enclosed spaces such as supermarket car parks. This follows growing concerns over the risks posed by electric vehicles, which can release toxic fumes in the event of a fire. Safety experts recommend enhanced monitoring and clearer guidelines for managing such incidents in public areas. Residents in the vicinity expressed relief that no one was harmed during the incident. Many praised the swift response of emergency services and the orderly nature of the evacuation. However, some questioned whether more could have been done to prevent the situation from escalating so quickly. “It was frightening to see the smoke coming from the store,” another neighbor remarked. “But the way they handled it was professional.” As the investigation into the fire continues, authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward. Meanwhile, Tesco has issued a statement expressing concern for the well-being of its staff and customers and reaffirming its commitment to maintaining safe shopping environments. The company is cooperating fully with the relevant agencies to determine the cause of the fire and implement necessary improvements. Firefighters continue their efforts to bring the situation under control, with the area remaining closed until further notice. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers associated with modern technology in everyday settings, highlighting the need for continued vigilance and preparedness.