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Day: October 7, 2011

Rena Update 2

Rena Update 2

Oil Pollution Update
The Rena has released more oil and has formed an oil slick some 12 kilometers long and 500 meters wide.   At least 100 tons of oil was released came from a ruptured tank and it is possible more oil will be released in the following days.  Oil booms and other equipment have yet to be deployed around the Rena.   Skimmers and other equipment  are designed to operate in calm seas only.   Unfortunately, the fair weather is not expected to last. Latest forecasts predict 25-knot winds with one meter swells in the next few days.  Reports state that residents should expect to see some oil to come ashore.

 

Photo: A diver resurfaces from inspecting the Rena. (stuff.co.nz)

 

A news release states lightering operations will begin on October 10 with the focus of removing the heavy oil and diesel fuel from the Rena first.   A naval architect is expected on scene and to evaluate if any other cargo will need to be lightered off the vessel before salvage can begin.   The tugboat Waka Kume out of Auckland has been charted to assist in the salvage operation.   The tug is expected to be on scene by the next day.
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Canadian Miner Update

Canadian Miner Update

Photo: Canadian Coast Guard

 

Holed and Breaking Up

The Canadian Miner was struck by a storm where 40 foot waves broke over the grounded vessel near Scaterie Island.    Reports state the vessel has a 50 foot hole on the side of the vessel near the stern and the hull has cracked in several places.   The storm winds reached gusts up to 131 kilometers per hour.   Waves have pushed the Canadian Miner closer to shore with the bow of the vessel now resting on the beach.   Luckily, salvagers were able remove 6,000 liters of engine oil and diesel fuel before the storm struck.   There is still 3,000 liters on board, but plans are to have it removed as soon as the salvage crew can return to the vessel.

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