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.
The 114 meter long, 3134 dwt freighter Dolphin 7 collided with the 77 meter long, 372 dwt ice breaker tug Kapitan Demidov in the Kerch Strait. The Kapitan Demidov slowed as it was breaking a passage through the ice, but the Dolphin 7 was too close and struck the icebreaker’s stern. The Dolphin 7 bow was damaged with a small hole above the waterline. No reports of injuries or pollution being released.
The 118 meter long, 7750 dwt freighter Gokay K went aground in the Kerch Strait, Black Sea. The freighter due to an unknown reason had veered off the channel and went aground. The Gokay K was able to be refloated a few hours later. No reports of injuries, damage or pollution being released. The vessel was en route to Iskenderun from Mariupol.
