Fire Contained on Bulk Carrier Sider Olympia in UK Port

A significant fire broke out on the Marshall Islands-flagged bulk carrier Sider Olympia on April 13 while it was docked at Northfleet port in the UK, prompting a large-scale emergency response. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.

The blaze began around 3:00 BST, with firefighting units from both Kent Fire and Rescue Service and the London Fire Brigade quickly dispatched to the scene. Emergency crews deployed multiple resources, including fire engines, an aerial ladder platform, high-volume pumps, a height vehicle, technical rescue units, drones, and marine response teams.

The London Fire Brigade’s fireboat joined the operation alongside support from the London Coastguard and UK Coastguard teams based in Gravesend.

The fire is believed to have originated in the vessel’s large storage bunkers. Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus boarded the ship to cool the deck and prevent the flames from spreading further.

By 3:30 pm BST, the fire was successfully brought under control. All crew members were confirmed safe and accounted for. Authorities are still investigating the exact cause of the incident.