Heathrow Airport, one of Europe’s busiest travel hubs, will remain closed throughout Friday after a fire at an electrical substation caused a widespread power outage in parts of west London. The closure is expected to disrupt travel for hundreds of thousands of passengers.
The fire, which broke out late Thursday, resulted in power cuts affecting thousands of homes and businesses. Around 150 people were evacuated after a transformer caught fire at the substation.
“To ensure the safety of passengers and staff, Heathrow will remain closed for the entire day on Friday,” the airport said in a statement. “Significant disruptions are expected in the coming days, and passengers should not attempt to travel to the airport until further notice.”
Airport officials said they will provide updates once more information is available regarding power restoration.
Why monkey is blamed for Sri Lanka’s nationwide power cut?
Fire and Power Outages Impact Thousands
The London Fire Brigade deployed 10 fire engines and approximately 70 firefighters to tackle the blaze. Social media footage showed intense flames and thick plumes of smoke rising from the site.
“The fire has led to a power outage impacting thousands of homes and businesses,” said Assistant Commissioner Pat Goulbourne. “We are working closely with partners to minimize disruption.”
Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks reported that over 16,300 homes had been affected by the outage. Emergency crews responded to the fire at 11:23 p.m. on Thursday, but the exact cause remains under investigation. Authorities have advised people to avoid the area as firefighting efforts continue.
Flight Cancellations and Travel Disruptions
FlightAware, a real-time flight tracking website, reported several cancellations, including two flights from New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport—one operated by Delta Airlines and another by American Airlines. A United Airlines flight from Washington Dulles International was also canceled.
Tiny Kuwait, in grip of desert summer heat, announces power cuts after fuel disruption
Due to nighttime flying restrictions, Heathrow typically opens at 6 a.m. The airport’s closure is set to last until 11:59 p.m. on Friday.
Earlier this year, the UK government approved plans for a third runway at Heathrow, aiming to enhance economic growth and global connectivity.
Source: With input froma agency