- Collision in the Strait of Gibraltar Causes Major Paraffin Spill.
- Chemical Tanker and Bulk Carrier Collide, Resulting in Environmental Hazard.
- Maritime Authorities Respond to Significant Spill in Strait of Gibraltar.
There was a collision of two vessels during the morning hours of November 1st, around 20 miles southeast of Punta Europa and 15 miles east of Ceuta, in the Strait of Gibraltar. The incident involved a chemical tanker and a bulk carrier, reports Safety4Sea.
Damage and Spill Details
This involved 600 tons of paraffin that was to be offloaded at SanRoque. The tanker made of chemicals suffered severe damages at the point of impact as most of the paraffin spilt into the water while covering about 500 cubic meters (500,000 litres). The bulk carrier did not suffer much damage; its bow was only a bit damaged, and no people on board were injured during the incident.
Response and Clean-up Operations
The incident was brought to the Maritime Rescue Coordination Center, which forwarded the Luz de Mar and Salvamar Denébola vessels towards the reported collision area for an on-the-scene investigation. The visual assessments revealed a noticeable smell and a visible sheen on the surface Additional surveys are needed to have samples aboard for further investigations. A helicopter assessment by Helimer 220 confirmed a spill within the reported area.
Constant Monitoring and Containment Operations
To ensure that no more serious harm is done to the environment, maritime authorities directed that the leaking tanker be anchored at least 12 nautical miles offshore from there. Because of some rather fierce currents in the Strait, spill movement is closely observed. Containment teams have been placed on standby over special equipment. It helps contain spillages of paraffin as that substance is likely, after a period, partly to evaporate.
Maritime authorities are actively coordinating efforts to minimize environmental impact. They are working to protect surrounding marine areas from contamination.
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Source: Safety4Sea
