H&M evacuated after ‘explosions’ heard in city centre

West Nile Street in Glasgow city centre was closed after the fire broke out (Picture: Google) A busy Glasgow shopping street was closed off and an H&M evacuated following a major fire. People in the area reported hearing explosive noises as the blaze erupted in a building in West Nile Street in the city centre around 4.30pm today. Seven fire engines, including a high reach appliance, were called to the fire, thought to have started at an electrical sub station. There were no reports of injuries. Firefighters and police cordoned off West Nile Street. The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service said an H&M store on nearby Buchanan Street was evacuated. A resident on West Nile Street said there was a lot of loud banging, reports The Sun. ‘It sounded almost like fireworks. There were flashes coming from the shutter. ‘The fire brigade came into my building and asked us to evacuate. Luckily they came on time. It’s a bit concerning.’ A Scottish Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson told Metro they were called at 4.31pm to reports of a six-storey commercial building on fire. Seven appliances were sent and the fire was brought under control. ‘There were no reported of casualties after a full building evacuation being carried out. ‘Members of the public are asked to keep away from the area and nearby residents advised to close windows and doors to prevent smoke inhalation.’ Crews remain at the scene. A Police Scotland spokesperson said: ‘West Nile Street in Glasgow is closed from Renfield Street to Bath Street after a fire was reported at a premises in West Nile Street around 4.35pm on Saturday, 15 November, 2025. ‘Motorists are advised to avoid the area.’ Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at webnews@metro.co.uk. For more stories like this, check our news page.