Huge explosion in Liverpool as people run from flames and fire crews warn 'stay away'

A powerful explosion rocked a residential area of Liverpool early on Tuesday morning, sending plumes of smoke skyward and prompting emergency services to issue warnings for residents to stay clear of the scene. Witnesses described the incident as terrifying, with flames bursting from the car park of a general practitioner’s surgery located on St Oswalds Street in Old Swan. The explosion originated from an electrical substation adjacent to the facility, triggering a rapid response from firefighters and local authorities. Emergency crews were dispatched shortly after 8:23am following reports of the blast, which occurred just minutes earlier. According to the fire service, three fire engines responded swiftly to the location, approximately nine minutes after being called out. Upon arrival, crews found the substation engulfed in flames, with fire spreading to a nearby vehicle, a campervan, which sustained severe damage. The fire service confirmed that personnel wore breathing apparatus during operations, indicating the presence of hazardous conditions at the scene. Residents and passersby were visibly shaken by the suddenness of the event. One eyewitness recounted hearing a loud “bang” at 8:15am before witnessing the entire substation ignite. She described the atmosphere as chaotic, noting the thick smoke that filled the air and the fear felt by those nearby, particularly due to the proximity of vehicles. The woman added that the fire service managed to contain the blaze by approximately 8:40am, though the area remained under strict control. Authorities took immediate steps to ensure public safety, implementing a 30-metre cordon around the incident site and closing St Oswalds Street between Edge Lane and Prescot Road. Merseyside Police assisted with traffic management, directing vehicles away from the affected zone. A representative from Scottish Power was present on-site, conducting assessments of the damage caused to the substation. The fire service emphasized that crews would continue efforts to fully extinguish the fire once the substation was safely isolated. Local workers noted that some electrical units appeared to have ignited, contributing to the intensity of the fire. One individual remarked on the speed with which emergency responders reached the scene, highlighting their efficiency in managing such crises. The walk-in centre and GP surgery adjacent to the substation were evacuated as a precaution, with officials awaiting confirmation that power could be restored. As of late Tuesday afternoon, the situation remained under active monitoring. The fire service reported that one fire engine continued to operate at the scene, while police maintained their presence to manage the area. Residents in the vicinity were advised to avoid the location until further notice. The Mirror has sought additional statements from Rock Court Surgery and Scottish Power regarding the incident.