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Tag: South Africa

Durban Storm

Durban Storm

MSC Ines
Photo: iol.co.za

On October 10, a strong super cell storm struck KwaZulu-Natal along with the harbour at Durban, South Africa.  The storm brought strong wind gusts and heavy rains causing several vessels to break their moorings and run aground.

MSC Ines

The 348 meter long, 114733 dwt container ship MSC Ines broke free of its moorings and was blown across the harbour until it lay perpendicular to the harbour entrance.  Five tugs were dispatched to refloat the boxship and assist it back to its berth. The MSC Ines sustained damage to its stern No reports of injuries or pollution released.

SM New York

The 336 meter long, 102518 dwt container ship SM New York broke its mooring and was blown aground on a nearby sand bank.

Bow Triumph

The 183 meter long tanker Bow Triumph broke its mooring at Island View and was blown aground on a nearby sand bank.

MSC Susanna & Maritime Newanda

Both the 337 meter long, 117095 dwt container ship MSC Susanna and the 190 meter long, 55820 dwt bulk carrier Maritime Newanda broke their moorings during the storm. Tugs were nearby and were able to hold the vessels in place until the storm abated.

 

MV Beaumont

MV Beaumont

MV Beaumont
Photo: zululandobserver.co.za

On August 28, the Philippine-registered MV Beaumont ran aground off Richards Bay, South Africa. The bulk carrier had finished loading at the coal terminal and was being assisted out to sea.  As the vessel reached the main channel, it was pushed onto a sandbank by the incoming tide.  Three tugs came to the aid of the MV Beaumont and were able to pull her free 30-minutes later. No reports of injuries, damage or pollution released.

Authorities had the MV Beaumont inspected for damage. An investigation was launched into the cause of the incident. Reports state the vessel may had suffered a malfunction before it had run aground.

Hsiang Fuh No. 6

Hsiang Fuh No. 6

Hsiang Fuh No. 6
Photo: SAMSA

The 46 meter long, 489 gt fishing vessel Hsiang Fuh No. 6 caught fire in the Indian Ocean some 736 kilometers off Durban South Africa. The blaze could not be contained and the crew sent out a distress call before all 30 persons on board abandoned ship into the vessel’s two life rafts.

The message was relayed to the South African Maritime Safety Authority who notified nearby vessels. The container ship Ever Diadem, bulk carrier Hampton Bay and bulk carrier SBI Antares responded.  Sixteen crew were rescued by the Ever Diadem while 14 were picked up by the SBI Antares. Both vessels proceded  to Durban with the survivors. One crew member had sustained serious burns.

Reports state the Hsiang Fuh No. 6 was last sighted still burning and afloat. Authorities have issued a navigation warning around the area.

Hsiang Fuh No. 6
Photo: wikipedia