Emergency crews rushed to Easter Dalmeny Farm near South Queensferry on Friday, 7 August 2026, after an oil tanker burst into flames, sending a thick plume of black smoke over the Forth Bridges. The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) dispatched four fire engines along with specialist resources to the scene shortly after 07:30, and the smoke was visible from the opposite bank of the Forth.
According to STV News, emergency services were first alerted at 7:36am, with police logging the report of the fire at around 7:50am. Separately, the Edinburgh News reported that the smoke was visible as far away as Edinburgh Airport, roughly five miles from the farm.
What impact has the fire had on local roads and transport?
Police Scotland shut the B924 at its junction with the A90 for the duration of the emergency response, cutting off a key route through the area. The closure also disrupted public transport: per the Edinburgh News, Lothian Buses had to divert its service 43 via Kirkliston Road and the A90 in both directions, meaning the route could not serve Main Street in Dalmeny while the road remained closed.
What precautions are authorities advising for nearby residents?
The SFRS urged people to stay away from the immediate vicinity given the volume of smoke drifting across the area. A spokesperson for the service said:
"Due to levels of smoke in the area, we ask that members of the public avoid the area."
The advice extended beyond those closest to the fire, with the spokesperson adding:
"If you live nearby, keep windows and doors closed as a precaution. If you are not in the immediate area but can see or smell smoke, please follow the same advice."
This is not the first time fire crews have been called to blazes around Edinburgh and the Forth in recent months. Firefighters previously tackled a wildfire near the Forth Rail Bridge in North Queensferry overnight, extinguishing the main fire without any casualties. The region has also seen a blaze on Arthur's Seat and a fire at a commercial property beneath Edinburgh flats on Dalry Road.
What happens next?
The bus diversion affecting service 43 remains in place until further notice, according to the Edinburgh News, meaning passengers along the Main Street, Dalmeny corridor will continue to face disruption until the road reopens. No timeline has yet been given for reopening the B924 or for the fire service to fully stand down from the scene.
Key Facts
- Fire reported at Easter Dalmeny Farm, South Queensferry, on 7 August 2026, shortly after 07:30
- Four fire engines and specialist resources deployed by the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service
- B924 closed at its junction with the A90 by Police Scotland
- Lothian Buses service 43 diverted via Kirkliston Road and the A90
- Smoke reportedly visible as far as Edinburgh Airport, about five miles away
