Fire Breaks Out at Southampton General Hospital – Patients Evacuated
Chaos erupted overnight at Southampton General Hospital after an electrical fire broke out in the Endoscopy Department of the West Wing. Firefighters from Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service rushed to the scene, forcing a swift evacuation of patients and shutting down part of the hospital.
Patients Moved as Staff Battle Blaze
The fire started in the early hours, prompting hospital staff and emergency teams to scramble. Vulnerable patients from specialist units were quickly relocated to other wards to keep them safe. One patient described the scene as “crazy,” adding:
“I’m in hospital — there’s been a fire on West Wing. It’s crazy here at the moment. They had to bring people onto the cancer ward but are making sure we’re safe from any infections. The staff are run off their feet.”
Another visitor revealed the disruption spread beyond the fire itself:
“My husband was due a day operation but they hadn’t phoned to cancel. He went in and was more or less straight back out as the day ward was full of West Wing patients. I really feel for the staff today.”
Road Closures Spark Traffic Chaos
Police shut down part of Coxford Road near the hospital, causing major delays and leaving some drivers stranded. One frustrated resident said:
“Part of Coxford Road is closed by police. I’ve just dropped someone off and now I’m stuck in the drop-off point as it seems you can’t get out the other end. Avoid.”
Though the road appeared clear early morning, locals warned the disruption would worsen during rush hour.
Fire Extinguished, Investigations Underway
By mid-morning, crews confirmed the fire was out, but the West Wing remains closed while damage assessments continue. The cause of the electrical blaze is still unknown, with investigations ongoing.
Hospital management has yet to issue a full statement but warned patients some appointments and procedures may be delayed. Emergency services praised hospital staff for their quick action, ensuring all patients were safely evacuated with no serious injuries reported.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.
