- Canadian Bulker Refloated After Detroit River Grounding.
- Strong Winds and Low Water Levels Push Stone Carrier Aground in Detroit River.
- Second Detroit River Grounding This Month as Water Levels Drop.
A bulk carrier flying the Canadian flag, loaded with stone, was successfully refloated after it ran aground in the Detroit River. Thankfully, there were no injuries, pollution issues, or disruptions to traffic, reports Port News.
Grounding Near Downtown Detroit
The incident took place late on November 26, as the vessel was making its way from Canada to the U.S. with around 18,000 tons of stone on board. It ended up stranded near a state park on the American side of the river.
Low Water Levels and Strong Winds Blamed
Officials explained that the ship had anchored to weather some strong winds and the unusually low water levels affecting the Great Lakes. They noted that the vessel was pushed out of its anchorage by the wind and current, emphasising that the crew was not at fault.
No Traffic Impact or Pollution
Even though the vessel was positioned diagonally near the shipping channel, close to where another grounding happened earlier this month, officials assured that there was no effect on commercial traffic, and there was no damage to the hull or pollution.
Tugboats Free Vessel After Refloat Plan
Two tugboats were sent out shortly after the grounding. The Coast Guard and local port authorities approved a refloat plan the following morning. The vessel was successfully freed and moved to a berth for inspection.
Second Grounding in the Same Area This Month
This incident occurred during a time of strong winds and declining water levels across the Great Lakes, with warnings issued for high waves and navigation suspensions in certain areas. It was the second grounding in that stretch of the river this month.
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Source: Port News
