Massive Fire Erupts in Birmingham City Centre, Triggers Evacuations

Birmingham, UK — A major fire broke out in the Deritend area of Birmingham this morning, prompting emergency evacuations and a huge response from fire services. The blaze, reported just before 9:00am, has engulfed a three-storey furniture factory on Rea Street South, sending thick black smoke billowing across the city skyline.

According to West Midlands Fire Service, more than 50 firefighters are currently at the scene. Nine fire engines, three hydraulic platforms, and multiple specialist units have been deployed to tackle the fire, which has severely damaged the building, tearing off its entire roof.

Aerial Footage Shows Scale of Destruction

Drone footage released by the fire service shows the full extent of the damage. The roof of the furniture factory has collapsed, and smoke is still rising from the wreckage. Firefighters can be seen using hose jets through shattered windows and from above via hydraulic platforms.

A spokesperson from West Midlands Fire Service said: “At present, the fire is affecting two floors of a factory unit. We’ve increased our response with 16 total fire service vehicles on site, including high volume pumps and command support.”

Businesses Evacuated, Residents Urged to Stay Indoors

Nearby businesses were evacuated quickly as the fire intensified. So far, no injuries have been reported. However, authorities have urged residents to keep windows and doors closed as a safety measure due to the large amount of smoke in the area.

In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), the fire service said: “Several fire crews have responded to a fire in a building in Rea Street, Digbeth, Birmingham. It was reported to us shortly before 9am. At this stage, no-one is believed to have been injured. Please avoid the area.”

Fire Crews from Across the Region

Firefighters have been called in from multiple areas including Oldbury, Walsall, Highgate, Hay Mills, Solihull, Aston, and Kings Norton. Crews continue to battle the blaze from ground and aerial platforms as thick smoke makes operations challenging.

Witnesses say the fire appears to have started at a furniture store. The cause of the fire is not yet confirmed and is under investigation.

Situation Still Developing

As of 12:40pm, the fire remains active, but under control. Emergency services continue to monitor the structure for further risks. Public transport and road traffic in the area have also been disrupted.

Authorities advise avoiding Rea Street, Digbeth, and surrounding roads until the situation is fully resolved.