Shocking moment bus EXPLODES during massive blaze at garage as firefighters battle to put it out

THIS is the shock moment a bus explodes as a raging fire takes hold at a depot.

Huge plumes of smoke can be seen across Potters Bar in Hertfordshire as firefighters battle the inferno at the Metroline garage.

Four buses are ablaze, and witnesses have heard blasts as crews desperately try to quell the flames.

No injuries have been reported.

However, locals living nearby are being evacuated from their homes.

Six fire engines are at the scene this afternoon, Hertfordshire Fire Service says.

Photos and videos show the red double deckers in flames.

A bus driver told the fire is believed to have been caused by a battery exploding in one of the electric vehicles while it was charging.

However, this has not yet been confirmed.

No one was on board at the time.

One person living nearby wrote: "Potters Bar bus garage - electric buses on fire after electric pack explosion."

Another tweeted: "Big fire at Potters Bar bus garage.

"Several hybrid buses have caught fire, say local bus drivers, and they may have difficulty moving others near by for some time.

"Could hit local bus services."

It's reported that a local raised the alarm just after 2.35pm after spotting smoke.

In total, 73 emergency calls were made to 999.

The fire service confirmed at least four vehicles within the fleet were on fire at the garage but said the cause of the blaze was not yet known.

A spokesperson said: "We are currently in attendance at this large fire.

"This is likely to be burning for a long time.

"Please avoid the area if you can, and keep doors and windows closed if you live in the area."

An investigation into the cause of the fire will take place.