More than 80 firefighters are battling an out of control blaze in north London as the country continues to struggle in record-breaking heat.
Twelve fire engines are at the incident at an outbuilding alight on The Broadway in Wembley.
Terrifying video footage from the scene shows black smoke billowing into the sky.
A spokesman for London Fire Brigade (LFB) said the cause of the blaze is not yet known. It comes on a day several fires have been reported in London alone amid the 40C temperatures.
They added: “Twelve fire engines and around 80 firefighters are tackling a fire on The Broadway in Wembley.
"An outbuilding at the rear of a range of shops with flats above is alight.
“The Brigade's 999 Control Officers have taken more than 40 calls to the blaze.
“The Brigade was called at 1409. Fire crews from Ealing, Wandsworth, Poplar, Mill Hill, Tooting and surrounding fire stations are at the scene.
“The cause of the fire is not known at this stage.”
The incident came as the LFB declared a major incident as firefighters continue to battle several "significant fires" across the capital during today’s record-breaking heatwave.
Fires were reported today in Dartford, Dagenham and Croydon, as well as Leeds, Norfolk and other parts of the country as the mercury nudged 40C for the first time.
London Ambulance Service added on Twitter: "We are responding to a number of fire incidents across London including at Rainham and Wembley.
"We have a number of resources on scene including ambulance crews and our Hazardous Response teams. We are treating patients on scene."
One concerned resident replied on Twitter: "Omg.. you guys are working your hearts out.. don't forget to look after yourselves in this too .. especially in that equipment."
Another added: "You're stretched today. Respect to you all."
Dawn Butler, MP of Brent Central, added: "There are currently 8 serious fires in Wembley.
"Please do not have BBQs today on dry grass or in parks.
"LFB are struggling atm please only call 999 if it is a serious emergency. Be careful, stay hydrated. And a big thank you to our emergency services."
London mayor Sadiq Khan tweeted: “London Fire Brigade has just declared a Major Incident in response to a huge surge in fires across the capital today.
"This is critical: @LondonFire is under immense pressure. Please be safe. I’m in touch with the Commissioner and will share updates when I have them.”
