Video: Massive Fire Erupts After Cargo Ship Collides With Tanker In North Sea

Fire Erupting From Ship — Screengrab from YouTube video posted by SkyNews

A major collision occurred in the North Sea off East Yorkshire on March 10, 2025, when the Portuguese-flagged container ship Solang struck the U.S.-flagged oil and chemical tanker Stena Immaculate, which was anchored at the time.

This caused multiple explosions, sparking fires that continue to burn on both vessels.

A total of 36 crew members from both vessels were rescued, with one individual hospitalised. However, one crew member from the Solang remains missing.

After an extensive search, the UK Coastguard called off the rescue operation late Monday night.

The Stena Immaculate was carrying jet fuel, reportedly being transported on behalf of the US military. A ruptured cargo tank led to a fuel spill in the sea, raising concerns about environmental damage.

Video Credits: Sky News/YouTube

Experts warn that jet fuel is toxic and may harm marine life, although some of the leaked fuel appears to have burned off in the fire. The Solang was transporting 15 containers of sodium cyanide, a highly toxic chemical used in industrial applications.

While authorities have not confirmed whether the chemical has entered the water, experts caution that sodium cyanide dissolves easily and could pose a serious threat to marine ecosystems.

Tracking data from MarineTraffic shows that the Stena Immaculate was nearly stationary at the time of impact, drifting at just 0.1 knots. Meanwhile, the Solong was moving south from Grangemouth, Scotland, to Rotterdam at about 16 knots.

Video Credits: ITV News/YouTube

Per shipping rules, a moving vessel must avoid a stationary one, raising questions about what caused the collision.

The UK Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) is expected to conduct a full inquiry into the cause of the collision and assess the extent of environmental damage.

Firefighting vessels, helicopters, and lifeboats from multiple locations have been deployed to the scene. Crowley, the US-based company managing the Stena Immaculate, has activated its emergency response plan, working alongside UK authorities to contain the fire and assess pollution risks.

While no official estimates have been provided on when the fires might be extinguished, authorities continue to monitor the situation closely.

References: BBC, NYTimes

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