Heathrow Airport has announced a full closure for the entirety of Friday, March 21, due to a significant fire at a nearby electrical substation that supplies power to the airport. This emergency situation has resulted in a considerable power outage, affecting both airport operations and local residents.
In an official statement, Heathrow Airport confirmed that the closure is necessary to ensure the safety of both passengers and airport staff. The airport will remain closed until 23:59 on March 21. Travelers are strongly advised against heading to the airport and are encouraged to contact their respective airlines for the most up-to-date information regarding flights and travel plans. The airport management has expressed their sincere apologies for the inconvenience caused by this unexpected situation.
The fire at the substation, located in Hayes, west London, has resulted in significant disruptions, including the evacuation of approximately 150 residents from nearby properties. The London Fire Brigade (LFB) has deployed ten fire engines and around 70 firefighters to combat the blaze. A precautionary 200-metre cordon has been established around the area to ensure public safety, and local residents have been advised to keep doors and windows closed due to the large amounts of smoke.
According to energy supplier Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks, the fire has caused a large-scale power outage, affecting over 16,300 homes in Hayes, Hounslow, and surrounding areas. The company has acknowledged the widespread power cut and is actively working to restore services as soon as possible.
The LFB reported receiving nearly 200 calls regarding the fire, which ignited late Thursday night. Emergency services were promptly dispatched to the scene at 23:23. The cause of the fire remains unknown, and LFB Assistant Commissioner Pat Goulborne has indicated that this is a highly visible and significant incident. He stated, “Our firefighters are working tirelessly in challenging conditions to bring the fire under control as swiftly as possible.” He also noted that this will be a prolonged incident, with crews expected to remain on scene throughout the night.
As the situation develops, authorities anticipate further disruptions in the area. Residents are urged to avoid the vicinity of the fire and to stay informed through official channels. The safety of the community and travelers is the top priority as emergency services continue to manage the incident.
