Altay
On the morning of June 27, the 120 meter long, 8184 dwt bulk carrier Altay (IMO: 9349992) caught fire in the North Sea while berthed at Kingston-upon-Hull, England. The fire started in the cargo hold that was loaded with 3500 tons of scrap metal. Large gray plumes of smoke enveloped the bulk carrier which forced an evacuation of the crew. The local fire brigade was called out with five fire engines involved in extinguishing the blaze. Nearby residents were advised to keep their windows and doors closed as smoke spread through out the city. No reports of injuries.
Fire fighters stated it would take some time to completely extinguish the blaze. Witnesses reported there were still thick smoke with a smell of burning rubber in the area 5 hours after the blaze had started. Authorities have stated getting access to the area in the hold where the fire was not feasible. Thus, the fire brigade is unloading the burning scrap onto the quay where it would be extinguished. This operation went all day into early the next morning until the fire was finally extinguished. Crews remain on site just in case the fire would reignite again.
There has been no reports of the extent of damage to the Altay or to the cargo of scrap. UK authorities have launched an investigation into the incident.
