Huge Ball Of Smoke Covers London Skyline After Explosion At Train Station

 A huge blaze has broken out at Elephant and Castle tube station -  with witnesses claiming they heard an explosion.

Black smoke can be seen billowing for miles from the station after a “large fireball” erupted at the train station in central London.

Terrified witnesses posted the shocking images on social media, explaining that they had been “engulfed” in black smoke.

Thick plumes of black smoke could be seen filling the air above central London at around 1.45pm this afternoon.

Travellers were urgently evacuated from the station after the blaze broke out.

One video shows the moment that a huge ball of fire exploded out of the side of the station.

Thameslink confirmed there was a fire next to the track at the Elephant and Castle station.

"All lines through Elephant & Castle are currently blocked. The fire brigade are assessing the situation," they tweeted.

Shocked witnesses described seeing an "explosion and a massive ball of fire".

One wrote: "Lots of black smoke, then an explosion and large fireball erupted."

Another tweeted: "Every now and then new, darker plumes of smoke rise up. Hope no one is hurt."

Another said: "I'm now engulfed in black smoke so can't see anymore.

"Smoke still pouring out, the area under the station is covered in thick, black smoke. Ambulances and fire fighting crew are in attendance."

A witness said they saw "numerous" cop cars present, an ambulance and three fire engines.

They said: "The security perimeter around the fire is being extended."