Explosion rocks area near London

LONDON – At least one large explosion early today shook an area north of London close to a fuel depot and Luton Airport, witnesses said. The cause of the explosion was not immediately known.

Residents of the town of Hemel Hempstead reported a loud boom and some felt their houses shake at around 6 a.m. The blast was so large it was felt throughout a large part of London and the surrounding area.

The explosion was near Luton Airport, about 30 miles north of central London. Sky News reported that the scene of the explosion was Buncefield oil terminal in Leverstock Green, near Hemel Hempstead. The news channel broadcast hazy video footage showing flames and smoke billowing into the air.