Cardiff Docks ship fire extinguished after overnight battle

South Wales Fire and Rescue Service confirmed the incident at Queen Alexandra Dock in Cardiff was brought under control after crews and partner agencies worked through the night.

The fire was extinguished at 7.12am on Wednesday morning, August 26. 

A formal handover between South Wales Fire and Rescue Service, and Associated British Ports took place.

A spokesperson for South Wales Fire and Rescue Service said: “South Wales Fire and Rescue Service can confirm that the fire on board the vessel at Queen Alexandra Dock, Cardiff, has now been extinguished.

“Crews and partner agencies worked throughout the night to bring the fire under control, with a stop message issued around 07:12 this morning.

“A formal handover is now taking place with Associated British Ports.

“South Wales Fire and Rescue Service would like to thank partner agencies and the public for their support and cooperation throughout the incident”.

There was heavy smoke in the area on Tuesday, August 25 (Image: NQ)

The fire was first reported on Tuesday, August 25 after fire and rescue crews were called to the fire on a ship which was carrying approximately 20,000 tonnes of scrap metal.

All members of the ship’s crew were safely accounted for, and although there was heavy smoke in the area – with Cardiff Bay and Penarth hit badly – there was no immediate risk to the public.

Anyone affected by the smoke was reminded to close their doors and windows, and seek medical advice if necessary.

Crews, appliances and specialist resources, including rescue tenders, an aerial hydraulic platform, a boat, firefighting tug and a drone were used to bring the significant fire under control.

While firefighting operations were ongoing, members of the public were urged to avoid the area.

People affected by the smoke were being urged to close their windows and doors. (Image: Supplied)

The spokesperson said: “South Wales Fire and Rescue Service is currently dealing with a fire on board a ship at Queen Alexandra Docks in Cardiff.

“Crews, appliances and specialist resources, including rescue tenders, an aerial hydraulic platform, a boat, firefighting tug and a drone, are all being used to deal with the fire, which involves a large vessel carrying approximately 20,000 tonnes of scrap metal.

“All members of the ship’s crew have been accounted for and are safe”.

They were also asked not to fly drones over the incident as they disrupted firefighting operations.

The South Wales Argus contacted Associated British Ports for an updated statement.