Sealife Weymouth remains closed as a precautionary measure following a fire at a nearby electricity substation on Sunday, July 12. The aquarium, owned by Merlin Entertainments, will not reopen to the public until it is confirmed safe to do so.
No animals, staff, or visitors were injured in the incident, and no buildings at the aquarium were affected. The fire was contained to an outside area adjacent to the attraction.
Fire Details and Emergency Response
Emergency services were called to Preston Beach Road at 3:45 PM on Sunday after reports that the substation was on fire and flames had spread to nearby trees and bushes. A total of 12 firefighters attended the scene, using two hose reels, two main jets, and foam to extinguish the blaze. The fire reportedly caused power loss to approximately 100 nearby properties.
Firefighters remained on site beyond 7:30 PM on Sunday, spending several hours dampening down. Weymouth Fire Station shared an image of the incident on social media.
Sealife Statement
In a statement, a spokesperson for Sealife Weymouth said: "Following a fire at an electricity substation on land adjacent, the aquarium will remain closed on Monday. The fire was contained to an outside area, and did not spread to the aquarium buildings. No employees or guests were harmed by this incident, and all animals remain safe and well in our care. The aquarium will re-open to guests once it has been confirmed it is safe to do so."
The attraction advised visitors due to attend on Monday to contact them on 01305 761070 to rearrange their visit or request a refund, adding: "We apologise for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding."
Wildfire Risk Amid Heatwave
The incident comes as parts of the UK face an "exceptional" risk of wildfires over the next few days amid record-breaking temperatures. The UK Health Security Agency's amber and yellow heat health alerts, which were due to be lifted on Sunday, are now in effect until 9 PM BST on July 15.
Temperatures of 35°C or higher have now been recorded in May, June, and July of the same year for the first time in UK weather records, according to the Met Office. Heatwave conditions are expected to continue this week.
A spokesperson for the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) said: "When the weather stays hot and dry, it only takes one spark to start a wildfire. What can begin as a small fire can spread incredibly quickly, putting people, homes, wildlife and our countryside at risk. We’re asking everyone to take extra care outdoors, whether that’s avoiding disposable barbecues in the countryside, parks or moorlands, or making sure cigarettes are fully extinguished. A few simple actions can make a huge difference and help prevent fires before they start."
