A large fire at an industrial unit on Southend Road in Essex triggers reports of a major explosion across the county. Multiple outlets describe residents feeling the blast and hearing it from their homes, with some also reporting that smoke billows into the local skyline and that it is visible from surrounding areas. Emergency services, including fire crews, respond to the incident, with reports that firefighters are tackling a substantial blaze at the site. Local authorities and outlets urge the public to take precautions during the incident, including keeping windows and doors closed. Coverage describes the event as occurring on Friday evening, July 24, and notes that the impact is felt beyond the immediate location, with homes reportedly shaken. While the outlets agree on the location, the presence of an industrial fire, and widespread reports of an explosion and smoke, they do not provide consistent details about the cause of the blast or any specific casualties in the shared excerpts. The situation remains focused on firefighting efforts and public safety guidance as smoke and fire activity are reported in the area.