Tonight’s match between Southampton and Preston has been postponed following a major fire near St Mary’s Stadium.
Large clouds of smoke can be seen all over the city, ahead of the championship club’s home game against Preston tonight.
The fire broke out in a disused factory nearby, believed to belong to Southampton.
A read: “The resolution was taken after consultation with local government and emergency facilities after a main fire broke out the previous day at a construction site next to the St Mary’s stadium site.
“The incident has caused significant disruption in the area, with roads around the stadium still closed as firefighters continue to manage the situation.
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Southampton fans have taken to social media following the cancellation of today’s match.
One X user wrote: “I have to feel the well-being of the Preston fans. Hopefully the club can welcome them in the lobby when they come. “
While adding: “Gutted there is still nothing we can do about it, best wishes to everyone involved, I hope everyone is safe!”
And a third said: “The best decision, too damaging to enthusiasts to pass on. I feel sorry for the Preston enthusiasts who already have to pass it on. Until now. “
A fire broke out next to Saint Mary’s Stadium in Southampton.
St Mary’s was shrouded in thick black clouds as flames burned in a factory in a nearby shopping area, just hours before tonight’s clash with Preston.
Southampton’s match against Preston was postponed due to a nearby fire.
A read: “The resolution was taken after consultation with local government and emergency facilities after a main fire broke out the previous day at a construction site next to St Mary’s Stadium.
“The incident has caused significant disruption in the area, with roads around the stadium still closed as firefighters continue to manage the situation.
“We are grateful for the cooperation of Preston and the EFL, and while we appreciate the sadness fans might feel, we hope they understand the need to prioritise the protection of fans and any of the clubs.
“The match will be postponed to a new date, to be announced in due course, and all tickets for tonight’s match will be valid for the rescheduled match. “
Southampton will host Preston at St Mary’s tonight at 7. 45pm.
The Saints have yet to show if the game will take position after today’s fire.
The EFL said it was “closely” following the scenario, reports the BBC.
Nikki Delaney, who witnessed the fire, told the Daily Echo: “The flames are at their peak and the situation is getting worse.
“The heat of the flames is strong and I’m even close. “
18 fire trucks try to put out the fire.
According to the BBC, “pops” may be heard coming from inside the burning warehouse.
The chimney, the roof to collapse and all the windows to explode.
The factory is on Melbourne Street and opposite St Mary’s South Stand.
The public has been warned to keep doors and windows closed as a chimney rampages through a warehouse in Southampton.
Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service said: “The initial call came at 1. 05pm. The fire is affecting commercial sets near the St Mary’s football stadium. Lately there are eight fire engines, two aerial painting rigs and other specialized vehicles on site.
“People in the area should keep doors and windows closed because of the amount of smoke.
“Some roads near the incident are closed and others are asked to come to the area to allow emergency vehicle traffic. “
A loudspeaker was heard telling people to evacuate St Mary’s Stadium.
Staff members running around the stadium were seen coming out of the building.
Southampton host Preston in the league tonight at 7. 45pm.
For now, the match is still in a playable condition.
The roof of the warehouse next to St Mary’s Stadium collapsed and windows were blown off.
Smoke the area.
Hampshire Fire
It reads: “Residents in the area are asked to keep windows and doors closed due to the amount of smoke.
“Some roads near the incident are closed and others are asked to come to the area to allow emergency vehicle traffic. “
The fire broke out next to St Mary’s Stadium.
The emergency is on site.
An X user shared footage of the huge fire that broke out near St Mary’s today.
A main fire broke out next to St Mary’s football stadium in Southampton.
The chimney does seem to have affected the football field.
Rather, the chimney is believed to have originated from a nearby disused warehouse.
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