A van has exploded near Westquay Shopping Centre in Southampton. 

A huge fireball was witnessed by passers-by, and food court workers in Westquay have been evacuated.

A Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue spokesperson said: "Crews from St Mary’s, Redbridge and Hightown are currently in attendance at a vehicle fire following reports of smoke and flames at the back of Westquay, Southampton at just after 9.30am this morning."People are asked to avoid the area while emergency services deal with the incident. Harbour Parade is closed in both directions."

<img data-id="fixed-image" src="https://www.gbnews.com/media-library/westquay.jpg?id=58231462&amp;width=980" alt="Westquay" width="100%" height="auto">Food court workers in Westquay have been evacuatedGETTY

Food court workers in Westquay have been evacuated{ai:summary}A van explosion occurred near Westquay Shopping Centre in Southampton, resulting in a significant fireball. Emergency services, including crews from St Mary’s, Redbridge, and Hightown, responded to the incident shortly after 9:30 AM. Passers-by witnessed the explosion, and food court workers were evacuated. Authorities are urging the public to avoid the area, with Harbour Parade closed in both directions. #crime

Huge fireball erupts after van explodes outside shopping centre

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