The 114 meter long, 3346 dwt freighter Sormovkiy 199 suffered damage in the ice while departing Rostov-on-Don, Russia, in the Azov-Don Channel. The Sormovkiy was proceeding in a convoy through the ice with an icebreaker escort when it suffered hull damage to its stem. The rudder compartment was holed in the ice. The crew were able to patch the hull and resume its voyage to its destination to Samsun, Turkey. No reports of injuries or pollution released.
The 108 meter long, 3104 dwt freighter Orel 1 suffered damage from ice while trapped in the Kerch Strait in the Azov Sea. The Orel 1 suffered hull breaches due to the ice allowing water ingress into the vessel. The vessel requested assistance and several icebreakers responded to the scene. The Orel 1 was taken under tow and proceeded to Chushka Split where it anchored. The crew were able to get the water ingress under control with the aid of pumps. The vessel condition was last reported as stable. No reports of injuries or pollution being released.
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.
