The 158 meter long, 19414 self-unloading bulk freighter Alpena became trapped in Ice in Green Bay, Lake Michigan. The Alpena had stopped during the night when it encountered thick ice. The freighter became trapped as the ice and water around the vessel refroze. Two Coast Guard Cutters arrived the following day and freed the Alpena. The Cutters began ice breaking operations in the southern section of Green Bay. No reports of injuries, damage or pollution released.
The 305 meter long self-unloader bulk freighter James R Barker became stuck in ice in the St. Marys River near Neebish Island, Michigan. The vessel was heading south from Sault Ste. Marie when it became stuck in ice. The Coast Guard Cutter Mackinaw arrived on scene and was able to break up ice along the freighter’s starboard side. No reports of injuries, damage or pollution released.
The 245 meter long, 40972 dwt container ship OOCL Belgium became stranded in ice in the Strait of Belle Isle off the Labrador coast of Canada. The container ship was en route to Europe from Montreal when it became stuck in thick ice. The vessel requested assistance with an icebreaker dispatched to the scene. No reports of injuries, damage or pollution released. Reports state that vessels usually take alternative routes as it is common to find the heavy ice in the area during this time of the year.
