Scrap metal fire causes heavy smoke in Southampton

A fire broke out in a scrap metal yard at Western Docks, Southampton just before 5pm this evening. Approximately 40,000 tonnes of scrap metal, an area of approximately 80m x 30m, was ablaze. Crews from St Mary’s, Redbridge, Romsey and Southsea worked with onsite operators to extinguish the blaze. The Harbour Authority used a tug boat to tackle the blaze from the water, and the onsite operator used a crane to scoop sea water onto the fire. The stop message was issued just before 21:30.

*Update 22:00*
The stop message was issued just before 21:30, and the scene has been handed back to the Harbour Authority.

*Update 20:00*
We’re scaling back our presence on scene. Two fire engines remain in attendance, working alongside onsite operators to continue tackling the blaze.

  

*Update 18:30*

Approximately 40,000 tonnes of scrap metal, an area of approximately 80m x 30m has caught alight. Crews from St Mary’s, Redbridge and Romsey are working with an onsite operators to extinguish the blaze. The fire is causing a large amount of smoke to travel towards the city centre, Redbridge and Millbrook.