Hurricane Patricia Grounds And Threatens Breaking of Bulk Carrier

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Accident: Grounding
Vessel involved: Los Llanitos, a bulk carrier
Location: Barra de Navidad, Mexico
Casualties: None
Pollution: Small amount of Oil Spill

The vessel, which departed from the Port of Manzanillo, was unable to withstand the strong winds, Category 5, of the Hurricane and ran aground.  The authorities were notified, and Mexican Navy Helicopter rushed to the spot.  Out of 27 crew members, 19 were evacuated to the shore by helicopter while others voluntarily stayed to assist the salvage of the vessel.  The reports state that the vessel is in the danger of breaking up.

Damages to the vessel:

  • A serious damage is posed to the vessel as it hit the rocky shoreline suffering a large crack in its hull.
  • The engine room and several other sections suffered water ingress.
  • A small amount of oil spilled into the water.

The reports say that the port authorities directed the vessel to depart due to the landfall made by the hurricane.

Source: Profepa