The 27 meter long, 275 dwt fishing vessel Polaris ran aground in Kola Bay in the Barents Sea near Murmansk, Russia. The Polaris had suffered a power black out and was unable to free itself. The trawler requested assistance with a naval tug responding. The tug was able to pull the Polaris free and proceeded to tow the fishing vessel back to Murmansk. No reports of injuries or pollution released.
The 145 foot long fishing vessel Ocean Explorer caught fire while berthed in Seattle, Washington. The fire started below deck spewing out smoke. Several fireboats along with a large response of local fire fighters were able to extinguish the blaze a short time later. No reports of injuries. No details on the extent of damage or if any pollution was released.
The 57 meter long fishing vessel Langenes caught fire in the North Sea off Bryne, Norway. The fire ignited in the trawler’s engine room, but was quickly contained by the vessel’s fire suppression system. Disabled by the fire, the Langenes sent out a distress call and requested assistance. Norwegian authorities dispatched two helicopters to the scene. Fourteen crew were evacuated by helicopter leaving six crew on board.
A short time afterwards the six crew on board found the Langenes had suffered water ingress. Without power, the trawler was unable to control the flooding. Another helicopter was dispatched to deliver dewatering pumps. The pumps were lowered to the Langenes and were able to control the water ingress. Four additional crew were also taken off the vessel leaving just 2 crew on board. A coast guard cutter arrived on scene and took the Langenes under tow. The cutter with the Langenes under tow proceeded to Bokna Fjord. Reports state conditions have made the tow back difficult.
No reports of injuries or pollution released.