On January 14, the 90 meter long self-propelled barge Isabel caught fire after an explosion while berthed at Dordrecht, Netherlands. The vessel was to undergo an inspection when an explosion occurred in a technical space resulting in a fire. The local fire brigade was alerted and were able to quickly bring the fire under control. No reports of injuries.
On January 15, the 88 meter long, 3001 dwt cargo vessel Rix Emerald went aground on the Øresund near the town of Landskrona, Sweden. The Rix Emerald had been proceeding in ballast from Aarhus when it approached Landskrona harbor. As the vessel entered the harbor it struck bottom and became stuck in the mud. The Coast Guard was alerted and after a survey by divers found the Rix Emerald had not sustained any damage. Authorities drained one the Rix Emerald’s fuel tanks as a precaution. Tugs were dispatched the next day and were able to free the Rix Emerald the following day. No reports of injuries or pollution released.
The 131 meter long cargo vessel Wardeh ran aground in the Mediterranean Sea near Mersin, Turkey. The Wardeh had been at anchor with just two watchmen on board when it was struck by a severe storm. The vessel’s anchors failed to hold and the Wardeh was driven aground just 500 meters off the shoreline. Strong winds and large waves broke over her decks allowing water ingress. With no power and the lower decks flooded, the Wardeh developed a heavy list to starboard. Authorities were alerted, but were unable to take any actions until conditions improved.
On the following morning, the Coast Guard helicopter to the scene and hoisted both watchmen to safety. Both were taken to hospital, but no reports of injuries.
Reports state the Wardeh had not been in operation for almost a year and had several prior deficiencies when inspected in 2016 and 2017. Divers are expected to inspect the hull for damages and authorities have launched an investigation into the incident.
