A major fire has broken out at BAE Systems’ nuclear submarine shipyard in Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria, with videos and images on social media showing flames and thick smoke pouring from the site. Two people have been taken to the hospital following the incident, though Cumbria Police confirmed there were no casualties.
The blaze led to an evacuation of workers from Devonshire Dock Hall, where the company builds Astute and Dreadnought-class nuclear submarines for the Royal Navy. BAE Systems, one of the world’s largest defence contractors, designs and constructs military hardware and technology, including submarines, fighter jets, frigates, and electronic warfare systems. However, Cumbria Police reassured the public that there was no nuclear risk posed by the fire.
Local fire crews and emergency responders remain on the scene as the incident unfolds. In addition, Cumbria Fire Service and the Ministry of Defence have yet to comment on the situation.
This incident follows a previous safety concern in April when an explosion occurred at another BAE Systems facility in Glascoed, South Wales. Fortunately, no injuries were reported in that incident.
More updates are expected as authorities continue their response.
