A stone monument with carved details and inscriptions stands in the foreground, with a blue double-decker Ensignbus visible in the background.

Local News · 26 June

The Day the Thames Exploded: The 1917 Silvertown Disaster That Shook West Ham

On Friday, 19 January 1917, at six minutes to seven in the evening, the largest explosion London had ever witnessed tore through the Brunner Mond chemical works on North Woolwich Road in Silvertown, West Ham.

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West Ham Magazine

West Ham Magazine is part of the Magazine.ad publishing network, bringing together local news, events, business stories, community updates and positive news from across West Ham and the wider London area. Our editorial team works with local contributors, organisations and businesses to publish stories that matter to people who live and work in West Ham, Greater London.

Every day we cover what's happening locally: community initiatives and good news, openings and changes on the high street, events and what's on, local business updates, and the people shaping life in West Ham. Whether you're a long-time resident, new to the area, or simply curious about West Ham, West Ham Magazine is written to keep you connected to your community.

Have a story about West Ham? West Ham Magazine welcomes contributions from residents, community groups and local businesses. Submit your story through Magazine.ad and our editors will review it for publication: local voices are what make local news worth reading.

Nearby publications in the Magazine.ad network: Newham Magazine · Tower Hamlets Magazine · Hackney Magazine