Police evacuate homes and locals urged 'shut windows' as huge fire breaks out in Manchester

A huge fire has broken out at a commercial building in the Gorton area of Manchester, with locals being warned to keep their windows and doors shut while emergency services respond to the blaze

An evacuation order has been issued in Manchester following a massive fire at a commercial building, which sent plumes of smoke billowing into the sky. The blaze reportedly started in a commercial property on Longden Road, near the Gorton-Levenshulme border in Manchester.

A substantial emergency cordon is in place, with fire and ambulance services stationed on Matthews Lane. Numerous emergency response vehicles, including several police cars, are present at the scene.

Images and videos shared on social media depict the extensive fire, with the smoke visible from as far away as Oldham. Locals have taken to social media to comment on the enormity of the fire, with one claiming they could see the smoke from over five kilometres away in Didsbury.

The commercial complex where the fire erupted houses pharmaceutical companies, motor firms, and a windows and doors business. It is currently unclear which businesses have been affected by the fire.

The fire service has confirmed that the fire originated in a commercial building and has advised residents to evacuate their homes and keep all windows and doors securely closed. As of now, there is no confirmation of any injuries resulting from the fire, reports the Mirror.

A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service announced: "Firefighters are in attendance at a fire involving a commercial unit on Longden Road, Gorton, which is producing a large amount of smoke. Nearby residents are advised to keep their windows and doors closed and to avoid the area. Road closures are in place."

Meanwhile, Greater Manchester Police (GMP) issued a statement confirming their involvement: "We are currently assisting our colleagues in Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service after reports of a fire in Gorton. A number of roads have been closed in the area whilst emergency services work and we thank the public for their patience during this time."