HM Coastguard has confirmed a number shipping containers have gone into the sea from two separate vessels off the Isle of Wight
Up to 6 shipping containers have been sighted floating in the English Channel after two cargo vessels lost units overboard during severe weather off the Isle of Wight.
HM Coastguard confirmed that a fixed-wing aircraft was deployed on Friday, 9 January, to assess the area south-east of the Isle of Wight following reports of container losses the previous night.
The first incident was reported at around 11.10pm on Thursday, 8 January. That vessel is now known to have lost a total of 17 containers overboard south-east of the Isle of Wight. A second report was received less than an hour later, at approximately 11.55pm, involving another cargo ship which lost 7 containers south-west of the island. Those containers are believed to have sunk.
During aerial surveillance, up to six containers were identified floating in the area. HM Coastguard says the situation continues to be monitored closely, with navigational warnings issued to shipping to reduce the risk of further incidents.
Responsibility for the recovery of all lost containers rests with the operators of the vessels involved. They are working with HM Coastguard and specialist salvors, while detailed analysis of cargo lists is ongoing to establish what the containers were carrying.
Mariners and members of the public are being urged to remain vigilant and report any sightings of containers or debris. Reports should be made to the Solent Coastguard by calling 0344 382 0560 or via VHF radio.
HM Coastguard has also reminded people that any non-perishable wreck material, including cargo that washes ashore, must be reported to the Receiver of Wreck within 28 days, using the government’s official reporting system.
The incidents come amid ongoing disruption caused by Storm Goretti, with authorities continuing to urge caution along the coast and at sea as hazardous conditions persist.
More to follow...
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