The Silvertown explosion occurred in Silvertown in West Ham, Essex, England. The blast occurred at a munitions factory which was producing explosives for Britain’s World War I military effort. Approximately 50 tons of TNT exploded, killing 73 people and injuring over 400.
It also caused substantial damage to buildings and property in the local area. This was possibly the largest single explosion to occur in Britain up to that time. The factory was in a highly populated area, but this was obviously not the prime concern for the military authorities. On January 19, 1917, a fire broke out and efforts to put it out were under way when approximately 50 tons of TNT ignited.
The plant was destroyed instantly, as were many nearby buildings, including the Silvertown Fire Station. Debris was strewn for miles around, with red-hot chunks of rubble causing fires. The emergency services immediately became involved in putting out the fires caused by the explosion, treating the wounded, and beginning to repair the damage caused. Thousands were left without a home, requiring temporary accommodation in schools, churches, and other similar places.
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