Scrap Metal Fire Sends Heavy Smoke Across Southampton

A large fire at a scrap metal yard in Southampton’s Western Docks sent thick plumes of smoke drifting across parts of the city yesterday evening.

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service said the blaze broke out just before 5pm on 31 October, involving around 40,000 tonnes of scrap metal spread over an area measuring roughly 80 metres by 30 metres.

Fire crews from St Mary’s, Redbridge, Romsey and Southsea were called to the scene, working alongside onsite operators to bring the fire under control.

The Harbour Authority supported the firefighting operation, using a tug boat to spray water from the docks, while yard staff used cranes to scoop and pour seawater onto the burning pile.

Residents in nearby areas, including Redbridge, Millbrook and the city centre, were advised to keep windows and doors closed as heavy smoke drifted inland.

At the height of the incident, multiple fire engines were deployed, but the service began scaling back around 8pm, with two engines remaining at the scene.

The fire was brought under control later in the evening, and the stop message was issued shortly before 9:30pm. By 10pm, the scene had been handed back to the Harbour Authority.

No injuries have been reported, and the cause of the fire has not yet been confirmed.