A huge fire has broken out in Birmingham today (Wed) with plumes of smoke visible 15 miles away as witnesses describe “apocalyptic” scenes.<br /><br />Residents have been warned to keep doors and windows closed after the blaze engulfed the Fort Dunlop building off the M6.<br /><br />Videos of the fire on social media show thick black smoke rising hundreds of feet into the air across the UK’s second city just after 4pm.<br /><br />People reported seeing the smoke from as far away as Solihull which is 15 miles from the scene.<br /><br />More than 50 firefighters, 13 fire engines, three 4x4 brigade response vehicles and a hydraulic platform are battling the blaze. <br /><br />West Midlands Fire Service said: "Multiple crews are currently in attendance at a fire on Hastingwood Industrial Park, Wood Lane, Erdington.<br /><br />"Avoid the area and close your doors and windows if you're affected by smoke.<br /><br />"This is a significant incident. Plan your journeys accordingly."<br /><br />The fire has caused gridlock in Birmingham with the main A38 at a standstill as emergency crews race to the scene.<br /><br />One motorist said: “It’s been a lovely clear day in Birmingham but in a matter of moments the whole sky turned black with smoke.<br /><br />“You can’t get anywhere and all you can hear are sirens from fire engines and police. It’s apocalyptic out there.”<br /><br />It is not yet known if anyone has been hurt in the fire.
