Major Incident Declared Following Fire at University Hospital Southampton

A major incident was declared at University Hospital Southampton after a fire broke out in the endoscopy unit at approximately 5:30 AM on February 1, 2026. The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service responded swiftly, deploying over 110 firefighters to the scene. The fire was contained, and no injuries were reported among patients or staff. Approximately 200 patients were evacuated to safe areas within the hospital, including corridors, as emergency services established road closures around the facility.

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Firefighters utilized breathing apparatus, hose reel jets, and an Aerial Ladder Platform to combat the blaze. Larry Mackrell, group manager at Hampshire Fire and Rescue, confirmed that the fire was contained to the room of ignition, but smoke spread throughout the floor, resulting in significant damage. Hospital authorities stated that all outpatient appointments for the day were canceled, and patients requiring medical attention were advised to seek care at alternative facilities, such as the Urgent Treatment Centres at the Royal South Hants Hospital and Lymington.

Major incident declared and patients evacuated after fire at University Hospital Southampton

The University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust issued a statement acknowledging the anxiety caused by the evacuation and emphasized their efforts to accommodate patients in available spaces. They requested that relatives refrain from calling unless urgent due to high call volumes. Paul Grundy, chief medical officer at Southampton General, noted that while the area of the fire was unoccupied at the time, it was connected to other ward areas, complicating the evacuation process.

Hospital evacuates 200 patients after fire

The fire's aftermath is expected to have a significant impact on hospital operations in the coming days. The emergency department is currently diverting patients unless their conditions are deemed life or limb-threatening. The hospital has urged the public to stay away from the premises while they manage the situation and assess the damage.

Southampton hospital declares major incident after fire breaks out

Local MP Satvir Kaur expressed gratitude towards emergency services for their prompt response in containing the fire. However, the incident has raised concerns among the community regarding the hospital's preparedness for such emergencies and the potential disruption to essential medical services.

Southampton General Hospital declares major incident after fire

While the fire has been contained, the cause remains under investigation, with no definitive information available at this time. Fire service officials indicated that they would conduct a thorough investigation to determine the origins of the blaze.

Major incident declared and patients evacuated after fire at University Hospital Southampton

• “At its height we had around 110 firefighters here. I can confirm that the fire is now out and our crews are undertaking smoke clearance within the building.” — Larry Mackrell, Group Manager, Hampshire Fire and Rescue

Major incident declared and patients evacuated after fire at University Hospital Southampton

• “We are asking anyone requiring medical attention to use other services in the community including the Urgent Treatment Centre at RSH or Lymington.” — University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust

Southampton General Hospital declares major incident after fire

This incident highlights the challenges faced by healthcare facilities in emergency situations and the importance of effective response protocols to ensure patient safety.

Patients evacuated and major incident declared as blaze erupts at Southampton hospital