A major maritime incident is unfolding in the North Sea today after a cargo vessel collided with an oil tanker, sparking a massive fire and forcing crew members to abandon ship amid fears of an environmental catastrophe.
Key Developments So Far:
- Tanker MV Stena Immaculate and cargo ship MV Solong have collided near the Humber Estuary, off the coast of East Yorkshire.
- Both vessels are on fire, with plumes of thick black smoke seen billowing from the site.
- Emergency rescue operations are ongoing, with multiple search and rescue helicopters, lifeboats, and firefighting vessels on the scene.
- 32 casualties have been reported so far, according to officials at the Port of Grimsby East.
- The Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander says she is “concerned” and is liaising with HM Coastguard.
- The Stena Immaculate, believed to be carrying jet fuel, was anchored at the time of the crash.
32 Casualties Confirmed
Officials have confirmed a total of 32 casualties have been brought ashore so far.
- 13 people were rescued on one vessel.
- 10 more arrived via a pilot boat operated by Associated British Ports (Port of Immingham).
- A further 9 were rescued by another pilot boat.
It is unclear at this stage how severe the injuries are.
What We Know About the Ships
- MV Stena Immaculate is a US-flagged tanker reportedly carrying oil and chemicals, including jet fuel.
- MV Solong, a Portugal-flagged container ship, had departed from Grangemouth, Scotland, and was en route to Rotterdam.
Marine tracking data shows the Solong appeared to sail directly toward the anchored tanker before the collision. Experts say it can take up to an hour to raise anchor, making it almost impossible for the tanker to move out of the way in time.
Massive Fire Engulfs Vessels
Video footage and images show intense flames and towering columns of black smoke rising from the crash site.
Firefighting ships are now on scene attempting to suppress the inferno, but both vessels appear heavily damaged.
Maritime Safety Expert Speaks Out
David McFarlane, Director of Maritime Risk and Safety Consultants Ltd, said:
“If the tanker was at anchor, her ability to avoid collision was extremely limited. Still, all vessels are expected to take action to avoid contact.”
He added that both ships should have had radar visibility up to 24 miles and lookouts on duty.
Weather and Visibility
The Met Office reports poor visibility earlier this morning in the Humber region due to fog and low cloud, which may have played a role in the collision.
Transport Secretary Responds
Heidi Alexander, Transport Secretary, posted on X:
“I’m concerned to hear of the collision between two vessels in the North Sea this morning and am liaising with officials and HM Coastguard as the situation develops.
I want to thank all emergency service workers involved for their continued efforts in responding to the incident.”
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