On January 13, the 67 meter long towboat Inez Andreas along with its barges allided with a railroad bridge over the Mississippi River at Vicksburg, Mississippi. The towboat lost two barges that broke free. One of these barges later sank. Authorities closed traffic on the bridge until it could be inspected. The barge that sank did not pose any hazard for traffic. Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident.
The 20 meter long tug Phoenix sank at the Volkerak Lock in Willemstad, Netherlands. The Phoenix had collided with the tanker-barge Imke Deymann resulting in hull damage and water ingress on the Phoenix. The tug partially sank leaving only part of its wheelhouse above water. All five crew on the Phoenix were able to escape in time. No reports of injuries. The sunken tug blocked traffic at the lock and authorities placed booms around the vessel to prevent possible pollution released. The following day a crane was brought to the scene to raise the Phoenix.
On January 4, the 27 meter long fishing vessel Kim Roger became disabled before sinking near Lofotodden, Norway. The Kim Roger had suffered engine failure and went adrift in heavy seas. With waves reaching up to 5 meters high, the fishing vessel suffered water ingress and heeled over on its port side. The gale force winds also pushed the Kim Roger towards shore. The five crew on board alerted authorities with a rescue helicopter and lifeboat dispatched to the scene. Before the helicopter was able to hoist the men to safety, the crew fell into the water. Luckily, the helicopter was able to lift all five crew from the sea to safety. The crew were later taken to hospital. No reports of injuries. The Kim Roger later sank just offshore the coast.
