A loud "bang" was heard as a block of flats erupted into flames, leaving thick black smoke billowing into the air.
A block of flats in Shoreditch, London, has caught fire this evening with 15 fire engines and 100 firefighters battling the blaze.
A witness reported hearing a "bang" in the area shortly before the fire. They said: "Something just went bang in Bethnal Green."
Another witness added: "I felt a bang from nearby while being inside, must be some type of gas explosion."
There have been reports firefighters at the scene also said it was caused by a gas explosion according to MyLondon.
The fire brigade were called to the terrifying blaze at 5:53pm with fire crews from Whitechapel, Shoreditch, Shadwell, Dockhead, Islington and surrounding fire stations are at the scene.
The cause of the fire is not yet known.
London Fire Brigade has confirmed that fire crews were called to reports of a fire and explosion on Granby Street in Shoreditch.
The flat where most of the fire and smoke was coming from had one of its external walls completely blown out.
Firefighters confirmed they rescued one person from a second floor flat whilst another four people were led to safety.
In a statement, The London Fire Brigade said: "Fifteen fire engines and around 100 firefighters have been called to reports of a fire and explosion on Granby Street in Shoreditch.
"Flats on the second and third floor of an eight-storey block are alight."
Images from the scene show thick plumes of smoke billowing into the air and a heavy emergency services presence.
A video shows a fire roaring inside one flat as sirens ring out.
Black plumes of smoke filed the air as residents could be seen helping one another escape safely.
In another video a woman can be heard saying "oh my god" as she saw the blaze.
Describing the fire, witness Lucas Hetherton, said: "The whole wall of the flat has been burnt down/blown out and windows above are smashed.
"Police helicopter is here as are air ambulance officers. The whole area is just crowded with emergency services and it is one of the craziest scenes I have ever seen."
Station Commander Paul Green, who is at the scene, said: “Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus rescued one man from a second floor flat He has been taken to hospital by London Ambulance Service crews.
“Another four people have been led to safety by crews using fire escape hoods. They are being treated at the scene for smoke inhalation.
“Firefighters are continuing to carry out a systematic search of the building.
"Part of Bethnal Green Road has been closed and motorists are advised to avoid the area where possible.”
The brigade's 999 control officers took 42 calls regarding the fire. The Met Police are helping with road closures around the blaze.
