An oil tanker has erupted into flames following a collision with a cargo ship in the North Sea, off the coast of East Yorkshire. The crash, which occurred at approximately 9:48 GMT on Monday, March 10, has prompted a large-scale emergency response.
The incident took place near the Humber Estuary, triggering a swift deployment of resources from the UK’s HM Coastguard. The tanker, believed to be carrying aviation fuel, was ignited on impact by the container ship, sending thick smoke billowing into the air.
In response to the emergency, the Coastguard has dispatched aircraft and rescue vessels from several locations, including Skegness, Bridlington, Mablethorpe, and Cleethorpes. Additional firefighting ships have been sent to help contain the blaze aboard the Stena Immaculate tanker. The cargo vessel, identified as the Solong, collided with the tanker, which was anchored at the time of the crash.
As the situation unfolds, details remain scarce, with no reports yet of injuries or casualties. The Coastguard has described the operation as “ongoing,” focusing on rescuing any crew members still aboard and preventing further damage. Authorities are also assessing the potential environmental impact, with concerns about an oil spill growing as thick black smoke can be seen from local coastlines, including Withernsea.
The North Sea, a busy maritime route crucial for trade between the UK, the Netherlands, and Germany, now faces the risk of significant disruptions. The cause of the collision remains under investigation, with theories ranging from mechanical failure to navigation errors. For now, the priority is containing the fire and ensuring the safety of everyone involved.
