Hundreds of homes are left without power after huge fire at electrical substation
More than 400 properties have been left without power after an electrical substation in the centre of Exeter was ravaged in a huge fire.
Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service was called to the scene off Fore Street on Sunday.
Several people were evacuated from nearby properties as crews attempted to battle the blaze shortly after 6am.
Video footage showed large clouds of grey smoke billowing out the top of the building.
Four properties were left damaged by the fire as well as the external substation.
The National Grid said 405 homes were without power on Sunday morning. Power had been restored to 491 homes.
Power is only expected to be fully restored on Monday at 12am.
Riverside Leisure Centre has been created as a respite centre for displaced residents.
In a post on X, the fire service said the blaze is 'causing lots of smoke in the area'.
It added: 'Please keep your windows and doors closed if you live in the area.
'You may also experience some disruption to your electricity supply.'
Six fire engines and a command support unit from Honiton have been sent to the scene.
The cause of the fire is unconfirmed.
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