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Ukushima

Ukushima

Ukushima
Photo: Japan Coast Guard

On the morning of November 11,  the 54 meter long, wooden hull Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force (MSDF) minesweeper Ukushima (MMSI: 31999662) was lost in Sagami Bay some 2.5 kilometers off Oshima Island, Japan. While conducting a drill, a fire started in the Ukushima engine room. The initial attempt by the crew to contain the blaze failed.  As the fire began to engulf the vessel, the crew requested assistance. The Japan Coast Guard dispatch a fire fighting vessel while the MSDF redirected the minesweeper Toyoshima to the scene. After several hours of fire fighting, the fire looked as if it was contained.  However, the fire would later flare up again a short time later and spread through out the wooden hull.

Authorities determined the next action was to evacuate the Ukushima crew over to the Toyoshima.  When the evacuation was completed, a roll call found that the petty officer on duty in the engine room had been left on board the Ukushima.

Reports state the fire continued to engulf the Ukushima until the vessel capsized and sank. The Coast Guard have dispatched divers to inspect the wreck and search the vessel for the missing person.  Authorities also state one other crew person was injured from smoke inhalation. This crew person was also on duty in the engine room at the time of the incident. The MSDF has launched an investigation into the incident.

Authorities have stated only one other minesweeper has been lost to a fire since 1966.

Allision in Hachinoche

Allision in Hachinoche

Ji Zhe 7
Photo: aba-net.com

On the afternoon of October 9, the 5274 dwt cargo vessel Ji Zhe 7 (IMO: 8359134) allided with the 185 meter long, 38,477 dwt cargo vessel Mimitsu (IMO: 9527958) in the harbour at Hachinohe, Japan. The Ji Zhe 7 was departing from its berth when strong winds pushed the vessel into the berthed Mimitsu.  There were no injuries or pollution released on either vessel.  Reports did not include any details if either vessel sustained hull damage.

The Hachinohe Coast Guard has launched an investigation into the incident. See video report on the incident.

Asuka II

Asuka II

Asuka II
Photo: kyodonews.net

The 241 meter long , 7324 dwt passenger ship Asuka II caught fire while docked in the port of Yokohama, Japan. The fire broke out on one of the top decks used for storage. The crew were unable to contain the blaze and requested assistance. Local firefighters arrived on scene and were able to extinguish the fire a few hours later.

No reports of injuries or pollution released. No passengers were on board the vessel.

The Asuka II has been berthed in Yokohama since April 1 due to the breakout of the coronavirus. The incident is under investigation.