Hydrofluoric Acid Spill from Container Aboard Mia Summer II Hospitalises 28 at Port of Antwerp

A shipping container aboard the boxship Mia Summer II began leaking hydrofluoric acid at the Deurganck Dock area of the Port of Antwerp-Bruges on Tuesday, forcing the closure of multiple terminals, suspending waterway traffic, and hospitalising 28 people. One person is in intensive care.

The leak began during cargo operations while the vessel was alongside the pier. More than 150 people were potentially exposed to hydrogen fluoride fumes, with 28 developing more serious symptoms and requiring hospitalisation for care and observation. Exposure was limited to crew members and port workers; fumes did not reach residential areas.

Port authorities activated cordon and evacuation plans covering the Kieldrecht Lock complex and the entire Deurganck Dock area, home to some of Europe's largest container terminals. Waterway traffic in the area was temporarily suspended. Antwerp Gateway reopened early Wednesday afternoon and marine traffic partially resumed; MPET remained closed at time of reporting.

The leak began to slow by Tuesday evening. Emergency responders made plans to seal the container and remove it for safe disposal.

Belgian prosecutors have opened a criminal inquiry into the circumstances of the release.