The 20 meter long towboat Sonny J partially sank on the Mississippi River near Vidalia, Louisiana. The towboat sank with some 4,000 gallons of diesel fuel on board, but the fuel tank vents remained above water. Reports state the vents have been sealed and a containment boom has been deployed around the vessel. A light sheen could be seen around the Sonny J and absorbent pads were used to collect the pollution. No reports of injuries. The cause of the sinking is under investigation.
The 200 meter long, 21081 dwt car carrier Alliance St. Louis caught fire in the Gulf of Mexico near Southwest Pass, Louisiana. The fire started in the engine room by an electrical short and was quickly extinguished by the crew. While there were no injuries, the fire damaged the engine and the car carrier went adrift. The crew alerted the Coast Guard who dispatched the cutter Brant to the scene. Reports state a tug was also dispatched to take the Alliance St. Louis under tow back to port. No reports of injuries or pollution released.
On Febuary 9, the 181 meter long, 33,800 dwt bulk carrier Floriana ran aground on the Mississippi River near Pilottown, Louisiana. The Floriana was heading towards New Orleans from Veracruz when it veered out of the shipping channel and run aground on a mud bank. The bulk carrier was unable to free itself and authorities dispatched a tug to assist in refloating efforts. The Floriana proceeded to anchorage off Pilottown where it was inspected for damage. No reports of injuries, damage or pollution released. Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident.