The 108 meter long, 5404 dwt tanker Sagan ran aground in the East China Sea off Suwanose Island, Kagoshima, Japan. The tanker was headed to Japan from Taiwan when it blown ashore by strong winds and heavy seas. The hull was breached on the rocky shoreline. The Sagan’s fuel tanks were ruptured and released fuel oil into the sea. A large spill formed around the western side of the island. The pollution was being being dispersed by rough seas.

The crew alerted authorities and requested assistance. The Japan Coast Guard dispatched a helicopter to the scene and hoisted all 18 crew to safety. No reports of injuries.