Commuters across London have faced major disruption after a fire broke out beside railway tracks near Stratford station, forcing the temporary closure of one of the capital's busiest transport hubs.

London Fire Brigade (LFB) confirmed that eight fire engines and around 60 firefighters were sent to tackle the blaze, which involved shrubbery close to the railway line. Emergency crews urged members of the public to avoid the area while firefighters worked to bring the fire under control.

The incident prompted the evacuation and closure of Stratford's train and Underground station, with severe disruption affecting National Rail services as well as the Elizabeth, Jubilee and Mildmay lines. National Rail warned that all lines through Stratford were closed, with trains being cancelled, delayed or revised until it is safe for services to resume.

Passengers reported lengthy delays and crowded platforms as transport operators worked to manage the disruption. Rail users have been advised to check before travelling, with knock-on delays expected even after the station reopens.

The fire comes as London experiences hot, dry weather, with the London Fire Brigade warning that wildfire conditions across the capital are expected to become increasingly severe over the weekend. Fire officials have urged people to dispose of cigarettes responsibly, avoid disposable barbecues in parks and take extra care to reduce the risk of further grass and shrub fires.

There have been no immediate reports of injuries, and emergency crews remain at the scene as investigations into the cause of the fire continue. Authorities are expected to provide further updates as firefighting operations progress and rail services begin returning to normal.