Fire breaks out at Tata Steel in Port Talbot
Police advised residents to avoid the area and use alternative routes where possible
Last updated 4th Jun 2026
'Substantial damage' has been reported after a fire on a production line at Tata's steelworks in Port Talbot.
Emergency services were called to the Tata Steel site in Port Talbot just after 8.00pm last night after a large fire broke out, sending thick plumes of smoke over nearby homes.
No one was hurt in the blaze, and the union has thanked emergency services for their response.
Commenting on the fire at one of Tata’s production lines at Port Talbot, Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said:
“I want to thank the emergency services for bringing the situation under control so quickly.
“Thankfully no one was injured in the fire and workers were evacuated safely.
“However, the fire did cause substantial damage to a vital production line.
“Measures must now be put in place to protect jobs both at Tata and down the supply chain during any period of disruption.
“Meanwhile we are asking Tata and the government to ensure that operations are rebuilt as swiftly as possible.”
Unite Wales secretary Peter Hughes said:
“Unite is committed to working with the company to ensure the long-term future of Port Talbot and the entire Tata operation in the UK.”
Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service crews from Port Talbot, Neath, Morriston, Glynneath, Swansea West, Cymmer, Swansea Central, Pontardulais, Llanelli, Carmarthen, Ammanford, Gorseinon, Pontyates, Kidwelly, Haverfordwest and Milford Haven Fire Station all attended the scene.
A spokesperson for Tata Steel said: "The incident is not related to the safe and successful demolition of the empty, redundant Gas Holder earlier yesterday evening.
"We would like to thank local site teams and the emergency services for their prompt and professional action.
"Further updates will be shared as information becomes available."
The large amounts of smoke led South Wales Police to issue a warning, urging people living near the site to keep their doors and windows closed.
Officers also advised residents to avoid the area and use alternative routes where possible.
A spokesperson for the force said: "Emergency services are currently dealing with an incident at Tata Steel, Port Talbot. Large plumes of smoke are visible in the area. Residents are advised to keep windows and doors closed. Please avoid the area and use alternative routes where possible. Thank you for your patience."