A fire aboard the Norwegian chemical tanker Bergstraum was successfully extinguished on July 28 after an apparent explosion while the vessel was at anchor outside Fredrikstad, Norway. According to ship manager Utkilen AS, all 15 crew members were accounted for, with no injuries reported and no signs of pollution or cargo release.

The incident prompted a large emergency response after reports of an explosion and fire near Skjærhalden. Rescue teams from Norway quickly arrived at the scene, joined by firefighters, police boats, the Norwegian Coast Guard, Swedish rescue boats, and a rescue helicopter. Firefighters were safely brought onboard to help control the situation.

Authorities later confirmed that the fire had been brought under control and that all crew members, including Baltic and Filipino seafarers, were safe. Rescue officials highlighted the importance of close coordination among emergency services, saying that cooperation between different agencies and neighbouring countries played a key role in the response.

Utkilen AS said its crew and shore-based emergency team are continuing efforts to fully stabilise the vessel together with Norwegian authorities. The company added that the main priorities remain the safety of everyone onboard, the protection of the environment, and the vessel itself. The cause of the incident is still under investigation, and more information will be released once available.