SOUTHAMPTON’S stadium has been evacuated after being engulfed in smoke as a huge fire rages on its doorstep.
St Mary’s was covered in thick black cloud as flames blazed at a factory on an industrial estate next door, just hours before tonight’s crunch Championship clash against Preston.
Emergency services rushed to the scene on Wednesday afternoon before setting up a cordon and closing off adjacent roads.
Dramatic video captured the moment brave firefighters battled the flames with hoses as smoke rose into the air.
The incredible fireball soared above St Mary’s and the surrounding area, leaving locals stunned.
A loud speaker was heard telling staff to evacuate the 32,000-capacity stadium immediately.
The factory affected is reportedly owned by Southampton and is currently disused.
According to the BBC, “pops” could be heard coming from inside.
The fire forced the roof to collapse while also blowing out all the windows.
The factory is based on Melbourne Street and sits opposite St Mary’s south stand.
An incident report from Fire and Rescue said: “Crews are currently attending a fire in Marine Parade Southampton.
“The initial call came in at 13:05. The fire is affecting industrial units near St Mary’s football stadium.
“There are currently 8 Fire engines, 2 Aerial Ladder Platforms and other specialist vehicles in attendance.
“People in the area are advised to keep windows and doors closed due to the amount of smoke.
“Some roads local to the incident are closed and people are advised to avoid the area to allow movements of emergency vehicles.”
The fire comes just hours before Southampton’s home clash against Preston.
Saints are desperate to win after falling eight points off automatic promotion back to the Premier League.
But it remains to be seen if the match goes ahead as the fire continues to rampantly blaze.
