A major fire broke out aboard the Marshall Islands-flagged bulk carrier Federal Welland while the vessel was berthed at Queen Alexandra Docks in Cardiff, United Kingdom, on August 25.
The fire involved approximately 20,000 tonnes of scrap metal stored in one of the vessel’s cargo holds, producing large plumes of smoke visible across Cardiff and surrounding areas.
All members of the crew have been accounted for and are reported to be safe, with no injuries confirmed.
South Wales Fire and Rescue Service launched a large-scale emergency response involving multiple fire crews and specialist equipment.
Resources deployed to the scene included rescue tenders, an aerial hydraulic platform, a firefighting boat, a tug and a drone used to monitor the situation from above.
The tug VB Yorkshireman was also reported to be operating alongside the vessel and using its water cannon to assist firefighters.
Thick smoke generated by the fire spread toward areas including Cardiff Bay, Cardiff city centre and Penarth.
Although authorities said there was no immediate danger to the public, Public Health Wales advised residents and businesses in affected areas to keep windows and doors closed while smoke remained present.
Emergency services also asked members of the public not to fly drones over the incident area, warning that unauthorized aircraft could interfere with firefighting and aerial operations.
Associated British Ports, which owns and operates the Port of Cardiff, said it was working closely with emergency services and supporting the response.
The fire presented a significant challenge because the burning material was located inside a large cargo hold containing thousands of tonnes of scrap metal.
Fires involving dense scrap cargo can be difficult to extinguish because heat may remain trapped deep inside the cargo, requiring prolonged cooling and monitoring.
Federal Welland is a Handysize bulk carrier built in 2000 and sailing under the flag of the Marshall Islands.
The vessel is approximately 200 metres long, with a beam of about 23.8 metres, a gross tonnage of 20,659 GT and deadweight of approximately 36,563 tonnes.
The ship is operated within the fleet of Canadian dry bulk shipping company Fednav.
At the time of the incident, emergency crews continued working to bring the fire fully under control and monitor smoke conditions around the port.
The entire crew remains safe, and no casualties have been reported, while authorities continue firefighting operations and assess the condition of the cargo and vessel.
