Scrap metal fire at docks causes smoke plume

31 October 2025

News image — About 40,000 tonnes of scrap metal caught fire near the Western Docks

Hampshire Fire & Rescue Service Water jets spraying a large pile of metal at Western Docks — About 40,000 tonnes of scrap metal caught fire near the Western Docks

Residents and trick-or-treaters have been warned to close windows and avoid affected areas as a scrap metal fire sends large plumes of smoke into the air.

The blaze started at the Western Docks in Southampton on Friday evening, after about 40,000 tonnes, and an area of 80m by 30m (262 by 98ft), caught fire.

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service said: "The fire has caused a large amount of smoke, which is being blown towards the city centre, Redbridge, and Millbrook."

By 20:00 GMT the fire service said it was scaling back its presence at the scene, with two fire engines remaining to continue tackling the blaze.

Smoke rises from an area behind metal railings. What looks possibly like heaps of scrap are visible. — Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service said the fire caused "a large amount of smoke"

Earlier in the evening a statement said: "Local residents are advised to keep their windows and doors closed to avoid smoke entering their properties.

"We're also recommending that those who are out trick-or-treating avoid being out in areas affected by smoke."

Crews from St Mary's, Redbridge and Romsey worked with operators at the site to extinguish the blaze.