Emergency services have launched a major response at Guy’s Hospital in central London following reports of a chemical explosion in the building’s basement.
Patients and staff were evacuated as a precaution on Thursday morning, with images showing people being assisted out of the hospital and a large police cordon established around the site near London Bridge. Medical staff were seen waiting in the street as authorities assessed the situation.
Social media users reported a “chemical explosion” in the basement, though this has not been officially confirmed. London Ambulance Service and the Metropolitan Police have yet to provide further details on the nature of the incident.
The London Fire Brigade said crews were called to the scene at 08:49 BST following reports of a chemical incident in the hospital’s basement. Two fire engines, two Fire Rescue Units, a Command Unit and specialist hazardous materials officers were deployed, with crews from Whitechapel, Dowgate, Euston and surrounding stations assisting.
Firefighters, working alongside hospital staff, evacuated people from the basement and ground floor before beginning ventilation operations to clear the building.
Photos from the scene show police and emergency vehicles surrounding the hospital near London Bridge, with staff and patients gathered in nearby streets.
The hospital’s operations have been temporarily disrupted while emergency crews continue their investigation. Members of the public have been advised to avoid the area.