Fire Erupts On Ship Loaded With 1,000 Tonnes Of Scrap Metal At Newport Docks

A fire broke out aboard the bulk carrier Nord Houston carrying around 1,000 tonnes of scrap metal while docked at Newport Docks in Wales early Sunday.

South Wales Fire and Rescue Service said crews were called to the port at about 05:40 BST after the fire was reported on board the vessel.

Firefighters remained at the scene through the day and were expected to stay into Monday to make sure the fire does not reignite.

Authorities later said the fire had been brought under control and there was no immediate risk to life or surrounding properties. No injuries were reported.

A major response was launched, with five pumping appliances, two hydraulic aerial platforms and specialist units deployed.

Firefighters carried out external firefighting operations using multiple main jets and an aerial ladder platform, while fire service boats supported water safety operations.

A drone unit was also used to help crews monitor the fire and identify hotspots as operations continued.

South Wales Fire and Rescue Service said the fire had been surrounded before being contained, while firefighting tactics were reviewed throughout the incident to bring it to a safe conclusion.

Chris Hadfield, Head of Operational Risk Management for the fire service, said the situation was now stable, but crews would remain at Newport Docks to monitor conditions and prevent any reignition.

He also acknowledged the support of partner agencies and the public during the response.

Authorities said arrangements were being made to unload cargo affected by the fire as operations were safely scaled back. The cause of the fire remains unknown.

South Wales Fire and Rescue Service said it was working with Associated British Ports, harbour authorities, Natural Resources Wales, police and Newport council to assess any possible environmental impact from the incident.

During the response, members of the public were advised to avoid the dock area to allow emergency services to continue their work.

Fire crews remained on scene as monitoring continued aboard the Nord Houston.

Reference: South Wales Fire and Rescue Service