Tropical Storm Kristine Causes Damage to Four Ships in the Philippines
Cargo Ships and Tanker Affected by Storm Kristine's Powerful Winds
Tropical Storm Kristine Hits Cargo Vessels and Tanker, Causing Pollution and Damage
On October 23, 2024, Tropical Storm Kristine hit several vessels in the Philippines, creating problems like stranded ships and oil spills. Strong winds, high waves, and storm surges caused four ships to run aground or suffer damage. Authorities are inspecting the vessels, and cleanup efforts are underway to control pollution. Below is a summary of how each vessel was affected by the storm.
LCT ASC Big Boy Drifts Ashore
The cargo vessel LCT ASC Big Boy broke free from its anchor and drifted to shore, landing about 160 feet from Barangay Sugod. The ship’s engine could not push it back into the sea, leaving it stuck on the beach. Reports confirmed that oil leaked from a damaged fuel tank on the ship’s port side, causing pollution. Fortunately, no injuries were reported among the 17 crew members.
LCT Golden Bella Runs Aground in Cebu
The LCT Golden Bella, a 62-meter-long cargo vessel, was blown ashore in Cebu after one of its anchor chains snapped. Strong winds and rough seas caused the second anchor to fail, resulting in the ship running aground. Divers will inspect the ship’s hull for damage before a tugboat pulls it back to sea.
CMA CGM Vessel on MV Losses 99 Containers During Storm off South Africa
Tanker Cassandra Faces Damage in Batangas
The MTKR Cassandra, a tanker ship, was already docked in Batangas after being seized by customs on October 16. The ship’s captain and crew are facing charges related to oil smuggling. When the storm struck a week later, waves and winds smashed the ship against the dock, damaging the hull. Reports suggest water entered the ship through cracks below the waterline, causing the vessel to tilt to one side (port side). Authorities also noticed oil leaking into the sea from the damaged ship.
MV Xavier 1 Pushed Ashore by Storm Surge
The dredger MV Xavier 1 had been anchored off Barangay Buenlag, but powerful winds and a storm surge drove it ashore. Fortunately, no injuries were reported among the 13 crew members on board.
Cleanup and Recovery Efforts
Authorities are working to prevent further pollution and inspect the ships for safety. Tugboats are expected to help free the grounded vessels, and repair efforts will begin soon. Cleanup crews are monitoring the affected waters, especially near the MTKR Cassandra, to control the oil pollution.
