Fire Breaks Out on Cargo Ship at Port of Antwerp

A fire erupted aboard the general cargo ship FWN Adriatic on July 16 while it was docked at the Fifth Harbor Dock in the Port of Antwerp, Belgium. Emergency services responded promptly, and a public warning was issued for the neighboring town of Merksem.

Firefighting Response Underway

The fire was reported to the Antwerp fire brigade around 10:30 a.m. local time. The vessel was reportedly transporting a cargo of vehicles and plasterboard intended for drywall construction.

Thick smoke was generated by the blaze, prompting the deployment of firefighters and a specialized fireboat. Crews managed to reduce the volume of smoke by sealing the ship’s hatches. In addition, they began using CO₂ to suppress the fire while minimizing further smoke emission.

Local Alert Issued for Merksem

Authorities issued a public advisory in Merksem, located close to the port, as smoke from the vessel was drifting in that direction. Residents experiencing irritation from the smoke were urged to shut windows and doors as a precautionary measure.

The situation continues to be monitored as firefighting efforts remain active.