The 147 meter long, 17999 dwt tanker Gelso M went ashore at Pointe Santa Panagia, Sicily near Syracuse.  The Gelso M  became disabled while route to Augusta.   The vessel became unmanagable in severe conditions with gusts up to 80 miles an hour.   The waves and wins drove the tanker on the rocks a few meters from the shore.   One report states the vessel lost control when the engine room became flooded.  The crew sent out a distress call to the Italian Coast Guard as conditions prevented the crew abandoning ship.  The Coast Guard dispatched two helicopters which were able to safely rescue all 19 crew on board.   No reports of injuries.  The Gelso M has developed a list to port after shifting on the rocks.   The tanker was in ballast reducing the amount of pollution being released.   An early investigation shows the vessel may have nagivated a route to close to shore for the weather conditions. 

Video from ilsole24ore.com

 

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