Authorities from Autonomous Republic of Crimea stated 120 ships are anchored in the Kerch Strait and due to adverse weather conditions in the Sea of Azov, there are 21 vessels surrounded by ice. Rescue helicopters have provided aid to those crewmen who were in need of medical assistance. Forecasters predict temperatures could plunge to as low as minus 30 degrees Celsius in the coming week.
Two vessels found themselves trapped in a severe storm at the Black Sea port of Samsun, Turkey. The 140 meter long, 6628 dwt freighter Feruz was at anchor when the storm caused it’s anchors to drag. The vessel went ashore against the breakwater and the hull was damaged. The 16 crew on board were able to safely get ashore. The 70 meter long, 1580 dwt coastal freighter Hay K also went ashore nearby during the storm. No reports of injuries. Reports state that waves reached up to 20 meters in height.
The 243 meter long, 107507 dwt tanker Shah Deniz collided with the 225 meter long, 73603 dwt bulk freighter Ju Da on the Black Sea outside the port of Novorossiysk, Russia. The two vessels were struck by high winds when the Ju Da struck the Shah Deniz. Both vessels sustained some damage, but no reports of hull damage below the waterline. Reports state there has been some fuel pollution released. Both vessels were attempting to evade a severe storm in the area. No reports of injuries. Authorities have stated they will investigate into the incident.
