Fire at Welwyn Garden City Substation causes large smoke plume

A fire broke out at Welwyn Garden City Substation in Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire, at around 10.20am on 11 January 2025. The blaze produced a large tower of black smoke that was visible for miles, with residents reporting sightings from as far away as London Colney and Hertford. Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service was called to the scene and initially dispatched two fire engines. The fire was subsequently brought under control, and crews carried out damping down operations at the site. No injuries were reported in connection with the incident. The event occurred on the same day as a separate large industrial fire at a business centre in nearby Letchworth, which also required a significant fire service response.

Not reported.

1. Substation fires can generate visible smoke plumes over a wide area, prompting public concern and requiring clear public communication from emergency services.
2. Rapid fire service response and damping down procedures can bring electrical substation fires under control without reported injuries.
3. Coordination between fire control and social media channels helps manage public inquiries during highly visible incidents.

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