Chaos at Bristol’s St Michael’s Hospital as fire forces evacuation
Blazing Fire Rips Through Hospital Roof
St Michael’s Hospital in Bristol was plunged into chaos this afternoon when a fierce blaze erupted around 4:30pm. Thick black smoke billowed across the city centre, visible all the way to Brislington. Avon Fire and Rescue Service scrambled multiple fire crews to tackle the flames blazing atop the hospital roof on Southwell Street.
A spokesperson for Avon Fire and Rescue urged the public to steer clear of the area:
“Firefighters are currently responding to the fire. We encourage people to avoid the area while we deal with the incident.”
Pregnant Women and Patients Evacuated, No Injuries
Hospital staff swiftly evacuated parts of the building—including the delivery suite—moving vulnerable patients, including pregnant women, to safety. Thankfully, no injuries have been reported. Professor Stuart Walker, Managing Director at University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust (UHBW), praised the emergency response. He said:
“Thank you to our amazing staff who worked closely with the fire service to partially evacuate the hospital. The hospital, including the delivery suite, has now reopened to women who need to access our services.”
Patients with appointments tomorrow are advised to attend as planned.
Road Closures and Ongoing Investigation
St Michael’s Hill remains shut in both directions between Tyndall Avenue and Horfield Road. Police have closed off the area to both vehicles and pedestrians, urging the public to keep away while they assist fire crews.
“Police are supporting Avon Fire & Rescue colleagues. St Michael’s Hill is closed to vehicles and pedestrians,” Avon and Somerset Police confirmed.
The cause of the blaze is currently under investigation as emergency teams piece together what sparked the dramatic fire.
