- Dutch Coast Guard Overcomes Challenging Weather to Rescue Drifting Vessel.
- Severe Storm Hampers Rescue of Adrift Vessel Near Rotterdam.
- Tugboats Struggle in Violent Storm to Tow Vessel Away from Danger.
A short-sea cargo vessel, adrift off the coast near Rotterdam, lost its rudder and anchors while carrying no cargo. The vessel measured 82 meters in length and carried seven crew members. It was drifting helplessly about 14 miles offshore and was in imminent danger of running aground, reports Marine Insight.
Harsh Weather Conditions
The rescue operation was complicated by stormy weather, 13-foot waves, and winds gusting up to 54 knots. It was tough to secure a line and tow the vessel safely because of these severe conditions.
Primary Rescue Attempt
The first rescue tugboat that arrived at the scene tried to establish a towline but faced huge difficulties in the rough seas. On one of the attempts, the crewman on the tugboat got injured and was airlifted by a Coast Guard helicopter to the nearest hospital. Two other individuals were also minorly injured during the rescue operations.
Further Assistance and Attempts to Tow the Vessel
With the weather conditions still harsh, another tugboat was sent to assist in securing the vessel. The additional tugboat also battled to establish a towline despite the violent storm.
Improving Weather Conditions and Successful Tow
With the weather improving during the afternoon, rescue teams made a final attempt. A lifeboat helped to assist the tugboat in securing a towline by 4:00 p.m. and the tugboat was able to start towing the vessel toward the port of Rotterdam. This was to avoid a maritime disaster.
Nicole Kuipers, head of the Dutch Coast Guard, thanked the rescue personnel, who worked in great difficulty conditions for waters with high risks on the North Sea. She also wished the injured crew a speedy recovery.
Regional Shipping Impact
The North Sea, the English Channel, and the Irish Sea experienced severe disruption to shipping from the storm. Several vessels suffered engine breakdowns or found it impossible to remain anchored during the gale.
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Source: Marine Insight
