Firefighters from Shanklin, Ventnor, Newport and Ryde are battling to save a bungalow on a rural lane on the outskirts of Shanklin this morning (Thursday).
It was around 10:00 that Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service initially mobilised resources to Upper Hyde Lane, off Victoria Avenue, to reports of a garage fire.
However, the situation soon escalated when the fire began to spread to the roof of the connecting bungalow, prompting additional appliances to be called – making 4 in total.
Around 20 firefighters are now on the fire ground working to contain and extinguish the blaze before it causes any further damage to the main property.
Crews are utilising hose reel jets, breathing apparatus and fans.
All persons are thought to be accounted for.
Engineers from Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks and SGN are both on scene.
UPDATE @ 12:49 – Eyewitnesses have described hearing a loud explosion at just after 09:30, before thick black smoke billowed into the sky.
An additional 2 appliances from East Cowes and Ryde have now been sent to the scene at Upper Hyde Road, as fire crews continue to fight the fire more than 3 hours on.
It is thought mainland-based resources will now be mobilised to stand by at Isle of Wight stations to maintain adequate fire cover.
UPDATE @ 13:30 – The fire has now been extinguished, and the incident is being scaled back.
Quick actions of firefighters have saved the bungalow, although damage has been sustained to one corner. The garage is also beyond saving.
