2019 claims its first casualty of containers going overboard

Barely a day into the new year, 2019 has already claimed its first casualty in terms of containers lost at sea..

MSC Zoe, a 396m long containership capable of carrying 19,224 TEU was the unfortunate ship which got caught in heavy seas between Vlieland, Netherlands and the German Bight in the North Sea on New Year’s Day as per the Dutch Coastguard..

Although the exact number is to be verified, the coastguard is indicating that as much as 270 odd containers may have gone overboard in tough weather conditions..

Dutch News is reporting that toys, car parts, and televisions have been washed ashore beaches attracting beachcombers..

The MSC ZOE was en route from Antwerp, Belgium to Bremerhaven, Germany when the heavy swells caused the incident..

Although the contents of all lost containers have not been confirmed, it is reported that there are at least 3 containers containing hazardous goods – Organic Peroxides (IMCO Class 5.2)..

Organic Peroxides are liable to exothermic decomposition at normal or elevated temperatures.. This decomposition can be initiated/triggered by heat, friction or impact and contact with acids, compounds..

The coastguard have warned the public not to handle or approach any of the containers.. Reports have surfaced that 18 containers have been located with 7 washing ashore in Netherlands, in the Vlieland and Terschelling area, but these 3 containers remain missing..

The strong winds and waves are making the task of identification of loss or recovery of any containers or investigations difficult..

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