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Showing posts from August, 2024

Missing Fishing Vessel 'Optimum' - Urgent Mayday Relay from MRCC Fort-de-France

 The Maritime Rescue Coordination Center (MRCC) in Fort-de-France, Martinique, has issued a Mayday relay for the missing fishing vessel 'Optimum.' The 9.5-meter boat, flying the flag of Montserrat, was last seen departing from Montserrat Island on August 28 at 0630 local time, heading east of the island. According to MRCC Fort-de-France, there are concerns about the vessel's safety equipment, as none is reported to be onboard. The boat has a white hull and carries one person (Pob 01). Ships in the vicinity of Montserrat Island are requested to maintain a sharp lookout and report any information related to the 'Optimum' to MRCC Fort-de-France immediately.

Distress Call Issued for Sailboat Near Prado, Brazil

 A distress call was received this morning from a sailboat in need of assistance near Prado, Bahia, Brazil. The last known position of the vessel is reported to be at 16°57'26" South latitude and 38°50'31" West longitude . The sailboat is described as white and has two people on board. Search Efforts Underway Maritime authorities in Brazil are coordinating search efforts for the missing vessel. Mariners in the area are urged to keep a sharp lookout and report any sightings to the Marine Rescue Coordination Center (MRCC) Salvador. Contact Information Email: MRCCSALVADOR@MARINHA.MIL.BR Phone: +55 71 99972-5468 (Phone/WhatsApp) or 71 3507-3730

Hurricane Gilma Regains Strength in Eastern Pacific

Mariners in the Eastern Pacific, be advised! Hurricane Gilma, previously weakened, has undergone a surprising re-intensification and is now once again a Category 3 storm with sustained winds of 125 mph (205 km/h) . This development poses a renewed threat to vessels in the region. Hurricane Gilma: Located in the Eastern Pacific, Gilma has regained its peak intensity, posing a significant threat to maritime operations. Unforeseen Strengthening: Experts were caught off guard by Gilma's resurgence, highlighting the storm's unpredictable nature. Tropical Storm Hone: While closer to Hawaii, Tropical Storm Hone is expected to strengthen into a hurricane but is not currently the primary concern. Recommendations: Monitor weather updates closely: Stay informed of the latest forecasts and track Gilma's path via National Hurricane Center advisories or reputable weather sources. Adjust course if necessary: If your planned route intersects with Gilma, consider rerouting to avoid

Distress Call: Indian Cargo Vessel Listing in Bay of Bengal

Update:  Chennai, India - August 26, 2024 (17:00 IST) - A tragic update has emerged in the situation involving the cargo vessel MV ITT Puma. A new INMARSAT message received by the Indian Coast Guard (MRCC Chennai) confirms the vessel sank at approximately 10:15 AM UTC (3:15 PM IST), August 25th, at its reported position of 20 degrees 27 minutes North and 88 degrees 35 minutes East in the Bay of Bengal. Search and Rescue Efforts Ongoing While this is a devastating development, there is also some positive news. The Indian Coast Guard successfully rescued 11 crew members from the MV ITT Puma. However, the search continues for the remaining three crew members who are currently missing.

Tropical Storm Hone Batters Big Island, Hurricane Gilma Looms

August 25, 2024 (Honolulu, HI) - Mariners in the Pacific Ocean, particularly near the Hawaiian Islands, should exercise extreme caution as Tropical Storm Hone continues to impact the Big Island. Hone's Wrath: Tropical Storm Force Winds: Hone is currently lashing the Big Island with sustained winds reaching 65 mph, according to StormSyndicatesWx. Hurricane Potential: Forecasters warn that Hone may yet strengthen into a hurricane, with Hurricane Chaser Chase highlighting increased convection that could impact Hawaii soon. Heavy Rainfall and Rough Seas: Expect heavy rainfall of 6 to 12 inches on the Big Island's windward and southeast slopes, with potential for higher amounts and dangerous surf conditions. Double Trouble: While Hone dominates headlines, Hurricane Gilma lurks further west, intensifying and moving westward towards the island chain. Stay Informed: Track the Storms: For the latest updates on Hone and Gilma's projected paths and potential threats, refer to th

Fisherman Missing at Sea

Mumbai, India – August 23, 2024 – A distress message has been issued by the Indian Coast Guard's Marine Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) Mumbai, alerting mariners in the Arabian Sea to a missing fisherman. The Indian fishing boat Maria, registered as IND-TN-15-MM-7305, reported that one of its crew members is missing at sea. The last known position of the missing fisherman was at 14 degrees 00 minutes North and 73 degrees 06 minutes East. The MRCC Mumbai is urging all vessels transiting the area to maintain a sharp lookout for any signs of the missing fisherman. Mariners are requested to render any necessary assistance and immediately report any sightings to the MRCC Mumbai. Severe Weather Conditions Mariners in the area should be aware of the challenging weather conditions. The MRCC Mumbai has reported winds of up to 14 knots with gusts reaching 21 knots from the southwest. Sea conditions are rough, with waves reaching up to 2.3 meters. Additionally, the area is experiencing clo

Paul Watson: Conservationist or Criminal? The Ongoing Legal Battle

Paul Watson, a renowned marine conservationist, and founder of the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society, finds himself at the center of an international legal battle. Known for his aggressive tactics to protect marine wildlife, Watson has been detained and faces potential extradition to Japan. Watson's detention has sparked outrage among his supporters and environmental activists worldwide. Hashtags such as #FreePaulWatson have trended on social media, with many arguing that his actions are justified by the urgent need to protect endangered species. Critics, however, contend that his methods are often extreme and have led to confrontations with law enforcement. The specific charges against Watson related to his detention have not been fully disclosed. However, the potential extradition to Japan suggests that the allegations may involve incidents that occurred in Japanese waters. Japan is a significant consumer of whale meat, and Watson's organization has been involved in numerous

Luxury Yacht Sunk by Tornado off Sicily: Tech Tycoon Among Missing

Palermo, Sicily – A 50-meter luxury yacht, the "Bayesian," met a tragic end early Monday morning when it was capsized by a violent tornado off the coast of Sicily. The vessel, known for its opulent features and exclusive clientele, was carrying 22 people, including British tech billionaire Mike Lynch. The sudden and powerful storm caught the yacht and its passengers off guard. Despite the yacht's advanced safety features, it was unable to withstand the force of the tornado. As the vessel began to sink, a heroic mother managed to save her infant child by jumping overboard and swimming to safety. The Italian Coast Guard launched an immediate search and rescue operation, but challenging sea conditions have hampered efforts to locate the missing passengers. The body of the yacht's chef has been recovered. Lynch, often referred to as the "British Bill Gates," was among the high-profile individuals aboard the Bayesian. His disappearance has sparked international

Fire on Panamanian Cargo Ship Off Indian Coast

India – A fire broke out early this morning, August 19, 2024, onboard the Panamanian general cargo vessel MV EFES (IMO: 9197686). The incident occurred at approximately 04:30 UTC while the ship was located at 13°24.58'N, 088°16.38'E (off the coast of Chennai). The nature and cause of the fire are currently unknown. There are no reports of injuries at this time. The Maritime Rescue Coordination Center (MRCC) Chennai has issued a distress call to merchant vessels in the vicinity, requesting assistance in containing the fire. Vessels are advised to establish communication with MV EFES and offer any necessary aid, keeping MRCC Chennai informed of their actions. Limited Maneuverability Due to Weather Conditions The search and rescue operation is expected to be hampered by the prevailing weather conditions in the area. Wind speeds are currently at 17 knots with gusts up to 29 knots blowing from the southwest, creating choppy seas with waves reaching 2 meters. Additionally, there is

Man Overboard Emergency in South African Waters

Port Elizabeth, South Africa – A distress call was issued early this morning, August 19, 2024, after a crew member fell overboard from the Liberian-flagged bulk carrier Serenity Diva (IMO: 9959773, MMSI: 636022905). The incident occurred at approximately 05:56 UTC in the vicinity of 34°33.0'S, 026°23.0'E, south of Port Elizabeth. The crew member was reportedly wearing blue overalls but the vessel's crew was unable to confirm if a life jacket was worn at the time of the incident. Port Elizabeth Radio has issued a Mayday Relay to all vessels in the area, requesting assistance in the search and rescue operation. The Maritime Rescue Coordination Center (MRCC) Cape Town is also coordinating the response. Given the challenging weather conditions in the region, with 22-knot winds gusting up to 29 knots from the northeast and waves of up to 5 meters, the search and rescue operation is expected to be difficult. The Serenity Diva, a large bulk carrier measuring 228.41 meters in leng

Diver Missing off the Coast of Norfolk

UPDATE :  DIVER LOCATED. Norfolk, VA, August 13, 2024 – The US Coast Guard's Rescue Coordination Center (RCC) Norfolk has issued an urgent marine assistance request following reports of a missing diver in the waters off Norfolk. The diver was last reported in the vicinity of position 33-44.303N 077-34.161W at 1316 UTC on August 13. All mariners transiting through this area are urged to keep a sharp lookout and provide any assistance possible. Mariners are requested to report any sightings or information to RCC Norfolk. Local Weather Conditions At the time of the report, weather conditions in the search area were as follows: Wind: 13 knots with gusts up to 17 knots from the Northeast Seas: 1.3 meters Sky: Cloudy with a chance of rain The Coast Guard has launched a search and rescue operation and is coordinating with local authorities.

Mayday: Aircraft Ditched in North Atlantic

UPDATE: "  The search was later stood down after it was confirmed to be a false alarm "  more info on dailyrecord

French Sailing Vessel Vagabond III Overdue in Atlantic Ocean

  Gris Nez MRCC, France (August 13, 2024): The French Maritime Rescue Coordination Center (MRCC) Gris Nez is reporting the sailing vessel Vagabond III overdue. Vessel Details: Name: Vagabond III MMSI: 227562810 Flag: France Color: White hull, white sails Length: 12 meters (39.4 feet) Width: 4 meters (13.1 feet) Crew: 1 person Last Known Departure: Coruña, Spain on July 21, 2024 Next Port of Call: Oleron Island, France Current Status: Vagabond III is overdue and has not made expected contact. MRCC Gris Nez is coordinating the search. Request for Assistance: All vessels in the area are requested to be on a sharp lookout for Vagabond III. Any information regarding the vessel should be reported immediately to MRCC Gris Nez. Contact details for MRCC Gris Nez: Phone: +33 3 21 87 21 87 Email: gris-nez@mrccfr.eu Weather Forecast (Gulf of Biscay): Wednesday, August 14: Cloudy, high of 18°C (64°F), low of 11°C (52°F), northeasterly winds at 10 mph. Thursday, August 15: Partly cloudy, h

Tropical Storm Ernesto Expected to Strengthen and Move Westward

 Tropical Storm Ernesto, currently located near 16.2N, 61.3W, is expected to strengthen and move westward over the next several days, according to a forecast from the National Hurricane Center (NHC). The storm's estimated minimum central pressure is 1007 mb, with maximum sustained winds of 35 kt and gusts up to 45 kt. At 13/0900Z, the center of Ernesto was located near 16.2N, 61.3W, having moved from its previous position near 16.1N, 60.5W at 13/0600Z. The storm is currently moving westward at a speed of 17 kt. The NHC has issued a forecast for the next several days, predicting that Ernesto will continue to move westward and strengthen. By 13/1800Z, the storm is expected to be located near 17.1N, 63.4W with maximum sustained winds of 40 kt and gusts up to 50 kt. By 14/0600Z, Ernesto is forecast to have further strengthened, with maximum sustained winds of 50 kt and gusts up to 60 kt. The storm is expected to continue moving westward, reaching a position near 18.7N, 65.7W by that ti

Potential Tropical Cyclone Five Takes Aim at Leeward Islands

  August 12, 2024 - The National Hurricane Center (NHC) has released the first forecast cone for Potential Tropical Cyclone Five, newly designated this morning. The system is expected to strengthen into Tropical Storm Ernesto before impacting the Leeward Islands, where Tropical Storm Watches have already been issued. Ernesto's projected path takes it westward across the Atlantic, potentially reaching hurricane strength before turning out to sea. This is a welcome change from the previous quiet months in the Atlantic. In July 2022, the NHC reported no tropical cyclone activity expected for the next five days. Current Situation: Location: Approximately 1200 miles east of the Windward Islands (as of June 30, 2021 update - note the date discrepancy). Movement: Westward Forecast: Strengthen into Tropical Storm Ernesto and potentially reach hurricane strength. Impacts: Potential tropical storm conditions for the Leeward Islands. Residents in the Leeward Islands should closely monitor up

Powerful Explosion Rocks Container Ship at Ningbo-Zhoushan Port

A significant explosion occurred on the container ship "YM Mobility" while docked at Ningbo-Zhoushan Port, China. The incident, which was captured on video and quickly spread across social media, has sparked widespread concern about maritime safety and the transportation of hazardous materials. Initial reports suggest that the blast originated from a dangerous goods container aboard the vessel. While there have been no immediate reports of casualties, the explosion caused substantial damage to the ship and surrounding infrastructure. Local authorities and maritime experts have launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the incident. As investigators work to piece together the events leading up to the explosion, the maritime industry is closely monitoring the situation. Any disruption to shipping operations at Ningbo-Zhoushan, one of the world's busiest ports, could have far-reaching consequences for global trade.

Distress Call: Sinking Boat with 65 People on Board in Mediterranean Sea

A distress call was received by Inmarsat this morning from the Italian Coast Guard (IMRCC Rome) on behalf of the Libyan Navy Coast Guard. A boat carrying approximately 65 people is sinking in the Mediterranean Sea. Last Known Location: Latitude: 33° 14.173 N Longitude: 12° 08.322 E Date/Time: August 8, 2024 at 09:25 CEST (approx. 07:25 UTC) Call to Action: All vessels in the vicinity of the above location are urged to divert their course and proceed to the area. If you make visual contact with the sinking boat, please communicate immediately with the Libyan authorities using the following contact information: Phone: 00218910349739 00218214449149 00218217173377 00218214449488 Fax: 00218213606868 Email: LMRCC.1@MOD.GOV.LY LMRCC.2@MOD.GOV.LY LCG.OPS.RM@MOD.GOV.LY LCG.NAV.ROOM@GMAIL.COM Confirmation: If you are able to assist in this search and rescue operation, please send a confirmation email to the Italian Coast Guard (IMRCC Rome) at itmrcc@mit.gov.it including your ship's satel

Sailor Missing at Sea in Bissau-Guinean Waters

A distress call from Inmarsat has alerted the maritime community to the disappearance of a sailor, Li Cayou, a Chinese national. Li was a crew member aboard the Tian Yi He 6 , a Fishery Patrol Vessel sailing under the flag of Dominica. The incident occurred in Bissau-Guinean waters at the approximate position of 11°50’N 017°26’W on August 7, 2024, at 11:57:52 UTC. All vessels transiting this area are urged to keep a sharp lookout and report any sightings to the appropriate maritime authorities. Vessel Details The Tian Yi He 6 (IMO: 8698633) is a specialized vessel designed for fisheries enforcement. Despite its role, the circumstances surrounding Li Cayou's disappearance remain unclear. Weather Conditions At the time of the incident, the region was experiencing moderate weather conditions. Winds were reported from the Southwest at 12 knots with gusts up to 15 knots. Sea surface temperature was around 27°C, and wave heights reached up to 1.5 meters. Intermittent rain was observed,

Liferaft Sighted in Mediterranean Sea

 ** urgency: Attention all vessels in the Mediterranean Sea** Source: Italian Coast Guard (IMRCC Rome) Date: August 6, 2024 Time: 11:41 PM UTC (August 7, 2024, 12:41 AM CEST) SAR Case: 2867 The Italian Coast Guard is issuing an urgent request to all ships currently transiting in the Mediterranean Sea. A possible life raft with debris has been spotted at position 39° 27' N 013° 39' E . Due to a lack of communication from those potentially aboard the life raft, the Italian Coast Guard is asking for your assistance. Actions Requested: Maintain a sharp lookout for any signs of the life raft or survivors in the vicinity of the reported position. Report any sightings immediately to the Italian Coast Guard IMRCC Rome using the following methods: Phone: +39 06 5924145 +39 06 59084409 Inmarsat C: 424744220 Email: itmrcc@mit.gov.it We urge all vessels in the area to cooperate in this search and rescue operation. The safety of lives may depend on your vigilance.

Distress Alert Issued for Bulk Carrier SPAR RIGEL

August 6, 2024 (18:00 CEST) - An EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon) alert was received today at 15:42 UTC for the bulk carrier SPAR RIGEL (MMSI: 257593000) . The vessel's reported position is 02° 53.5N 044° 48.5W . The alert has been relayed to the Maritime Rescue Coordination Center (MRCC) Belém, Brazil (mrccbelem@marinha.mil.br, +55 91 3216-4030). MRCC Belém is requesting any vessels in the vicinity of the SPAR RIGEL to check on the vessel's safety and report any information they may have. About the SPAR RIGEL: Type: Bulk Carrier Flag: Norway IMO: 9557111 Length: 189.99 meters (623.3 feet) Width: 32.3 meters (106.0 feet) Current Weather Conditions in the Area: Wind: Southeast at 14 knots (26 km/h) Waves: Up to 2 meters (6.6 feet) Sky: Partly cloudy Additional Information: An EPIRB is a distress beacon that automatically activates when submerged in water. This alert indicates that the SPAR RIGEL may be in need of assistance. If you are a vessel in the vic

Hurricane Debby Expected to Make Landfall in Florida as a Major Storm

 The National Hurricane Center has issued its latest advisory for Hurricane Debby, currently located near 28.6N, 84.0W with maximum sustained winds of 65 kt and an estimated minimum central pressure of 985 mb. The system is moving north at a speed of 10 kt. According to the forecast, Debby is expected to make landfall in Florida as a major hurricane, with maximum sustained winds reaching 75 kt and gusts up to 90 kt by Monday, August 5th, 2024, at 1200 UTC. The system will continue to move north, making landfall near 29.8N, 83.8W, and weakening slightly as it moves inland. The National Hurricane Center has warned of the potential for life-threatening storm surges, heavy rainfall, and strong winds, particularly in coastal areas. Residents in the affected regions are advised to monitor local weather reports, follow instructions from local authorities, and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.

Distress Beacon Activated for Tanker CHEM POLARIS in Atlantic Ocean

August 2, 2024 (09:43 UTC): A distress beacon alert was received by the U.S. Coast Guard Rescue Coordination Center (RCC) Norfolk at 2:35 am UTC (7:35 am EDT) on August 2nd, 2024. The beacon, a 406 MHz EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon), originated from the Liberian-flagged chemical tanker CHEM POLARIS (MMSI 636016965). The alert did not provide any additional information beyond the vessel's identification and location. The CHEM POLARIS is currently located at 33° 29.9' North, 50° 18.8' West in the Atlantic Ocean. Mariners in the vicinity are urged to exercise caution, maintain a sharp lookout, and report any sightings to RCC Norfolk. Ship Details: Name: CHEM POLARIS IMO: 9416044 MMSI: 636016965 Flag: Liberia Call Sign: D5IQ3 Size: 146 meters x 24 meters (479 ft x 79 ft) Gross Tonnage: 11,751 tons Deadweight Tonnage: 19,859 tons Built: 2008 (16 years old) Weather Conditions in the Area: Wind: Easterly at 9 knots with gusts up to 12 knots, decreasing. Wave h

Freighter in Distress Rescued Near Somerset Island

Iqaluit, Canada – A dramatic rescue operation unfolded in the waters near Somerset Island on July 31st when a distress call was received by the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre (JRCC) Trenton. The initial alert, issued at 15:55 UTC, reported a disabled vessel in need of immediate assistance due to inclement weather. The vessel in distress was later identified as a 28-foot Silver Dolphin cabin cruiser with eight people on board. Despite initial confusion about the vessel's type and location, the Canadian Coast Guard swiftly coordinated a search and rescue effort. Multiple agencies, including Prescott Maritime Communications and Traffic Services Centre and Iqaluit Maritime Communications and Traffic Services Centre, were involved in the operation. Fortunately, the distress call was followed by a positive update at 17:45 UTC confirming that the Silver Dolphin was receiving assistance. The successful rescue of the eight individuals aboard the Silver Dolphin is a testament to the swift