A major fire broke out at an industrial unit in Brislington, Bristol, on Tuesday afternoon, September 1, 2026, sending a huge plume of dark smoke into the sky and prompting a large emergency response.
Avon Fire and Rescue Service said crews were called to the fire on Emery Road at around 2:27 p.m. Firefighters from nine stations, including Hicks Gate, Temple, Kingswood, Avonmouth, Yate, Bath, Patchway, Bedminster and Nailsea, were sent to tackle the blaze. Fourteen fire appliances were reported to be at the scene as crews worked to bring the flames under control.
The scale of the fire was visible from considerable distances across Bristol, with thick smoke rising above the industrial estate. Reports also said loud explosions or blasts could be heard as firefighters battled the flames inside the industrial unit. The cause of those sounds has not been established publicly.
Avon Fire and Rescue urged people living and working nearby to keep windows and doors closed and avoid the area where possible because of the smoke. Police were also attending, and a large cordon was put in place around the scene.
The fire caused disruption around Brislington, with Emery Road between the A4 Bath Road and Bonville Road closed while emergency crews responded. Motorists were advised to stay away from the area and seek alternative routes.
There were no reported injuries in the latest updates available, although firefighters remained at the scene dealing with the significant blaze. Authorities have not yet announced what started the fire or provided an estimate of the damage caused to the industrial premises.
The incident remains ongoing as firefighters continue efforts to extinguish the fire and make the area safe. Residents are being asked to follow official safety instructions while emergency services investigate the circumstances surrounding the blaze.
