Canadian Coast Guard crews report no pollution incidents despite “significant hull breaches” to the MSC Baltic containership which ran aground on February 15 in Wild Cove, west of Lark Harbour, after losing power. Canadian Coast Guard crews continue to assess the MSC Baltic III from the shoreline and by air.
“An assessment of the hull confirmed significant breaches or holes are present. The vessel appears to have settled firmly on the seabed, and is stable at this time,” indicates the latest CCG report.
Tank soundings have confirmed approximately 1.7 million litres of heavy fuel and marine gas oil onboard the vessel. No pollution has been observed.
The CCGS Jean Goodwill remains on scene with spill response equipment onboard and is providing assistance as required.
CCG officials said sea conditions hampered some operations over the weekend including the ability to safely access the vessel.
Meanwhile, the salvage team is continuing their assessment of the MSC Baltic III as sea conditions allow. It includes further tank soundings and inspections of cargo holds.
All 20 crew members were safely evacuated by Cormorant helicopter immediately after the grounding. En route from Montreal to Corner Brook, the vessel was carrying about 470 containers at the time of the incident, with more than half empty. The cargo consists mainly of food products, lumber, and paper supplies.
A two-nautical-mile restricted zone has been established around the vessel, with drone operations currently prohibited due to ongoing helicopter activities.
(Photo from Canadian Coast Guard)