Oil Tanker Explosion Yorkshire Coast

Yorkshire, UK – Oil Tanker Explosion Yorkshire Coast has triggered a massive fire and raised fears of an environmental disaster. The crash between the US-flagged MV Stena Immaculate and the Portugal-flagged MV Solong occurred Monday morning (March 10) in the Humber Estuary near Hull.

The US-flagged tanker MV Stena Immaculate was anchored in the Humber Estuary near Hull when the Portugal-flagged cargo ship MV Solong crashed into it. Moments later, a powerful explosion sent flames and thick black smoke into the sky.

Major Rescue Operation Underway

So far, rescue teams have saved 32 people, but some crew members are still missing. Emergency response teams from Skegness, Bridlington, Mablethorpe, and Cleethorpes have joined the search.

Helicopters, lifeboats, and civilian vessels are working together to evacuate survivors. Meanwhile, fire-fighting ships are trying to contain the blaze.

Martyn Boyers, CEO of Grimsby East Port, described the incident as catastrophic. “We saw a massive fireball,” he said. “Rescue boats are bringing survivors to shore as quickly as possible.”

Environmental Concerns Grow

The MV Stena Immaculate was carrying jet A-1 fuel, which had started leaking into the sea. Thick black smoke continues to spread, forcing authorities to issue health warnings. Residents near the coast should keep their windows closed to avoid inhaling toxic fumes.

The UK’s Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander, expressed concern. “Officials and the HM Coastguard are closely monitoring the situation,” she stated.

Background on the Ships

The 600-foot MV Stena Immaculate, built in 2017, weighs 29,854 tons. Stena Bulk co-owns the vessel with its US partner Crowley. Before the accident, the ship had arrived from Agioi Theodoroi, Greece, and was waiting offshore near Hull.

The 461-foot MV Solong, built in 2005, weighs 7,852 tons. It was traveling from Grangemouth, Scotland, to Rotterdam, Netherlands with commercial cargo. The ship had around 20 crew members on board at the time of the collision.

What Happens Next?

Rescue operations will continue until all crew members are found. Meanwhile, maritime authorities have urged vessels to avoid the area due to the ongoing fire and fuel spill.

Investigators will examine what caused the crash and assess the environmental damage.

For official updates, visit the UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency