Residents evacuated after blast in London flats

An explosion was reported in a block of flats in east London after which residents were evacuated, Aaj News reported late Monday night. Quoting British media sources, Aaj News further reported that specialist firefighters along with a London Ambulance Hazardous Area Response Team were sent to the property on Ardleigh Green Road, Hornchurch, shortly after the blast.
Five people needed hospital treatment and debris had been scattered across nearby roads. The cause of the explosion is not yet known. The A127 is closed in both directions and motorists and pedestrians have been advised to avoid the area. Three ambulance crews, 10 fire engines and the Metropolitan Police are currently in attendance. Security forces have cordoned off the area.