More than 100 firefighters were deployed to tackle a major blaze at a recycling facility in southeast London, as thick smoke spread across parts of the British capital.

The fire broke out Monday afternoon at a recycling centre on Landmann Way in the Bermondsey area, prompting a large-scale response from the London Fire Brigade (LFB).

Authorities dispatched 15 fire engines and over 100 firefighters to the scene as crews worked to contain the flames and prevent the fire from spreading further.

Large plumes of black smoke were seen rising above the area, with images shared on social media showing the smoke visible from several kilometres away. Residents living nearby were advised to keep doors and windows closed due to the heavy smoke.

Fire crews from several stations, including Deptford, Old Kent Road and Greenwich, joined the operation. Two 32-metre aerial ladder platforms were also deployed to assist efforts to bring the blaze under control.

Officials said firefighters were facing challenges due to the large volume of waste material stored at the site. Emergency services warned that burning debris and embers could be carried beyond the immediate area and urged residents to remain vigilant.

The firefighting operation was expected to continue throughout the night as crews worked to extinguish hotspots and secure the site.

The incident also caused disruption to rail services in and around central London. Several train routes were diverted or temporarily suspended due to safety concerns linked to the fire and smoke near railway infrastructure.

Transport operators reported delays affecting services to and from major London stations, while some sections of the rail network were temporarily closed as a precaution.

Local authorities reiterated advice for residents to avoid the area where possible and to follow updates issued by emergency services while firefighting operations remain ongoing.(ILKHA)