CMA CGM Vessel Loses 44 Containers Due To Severe Storm Off South African Coast

The CMA CGM Benjamin Franklin, a massive containership operated by the French liner CMA CGM, encountered severe weather conditions, resulting in the loss of 44 containers overboard off the coast of South Africa.

On July 9, 2024, the vessel, part of the Ocean Alliance’s Asia North Europe service, encountered heavy, unusually strong adverse weather on the South African coast en route to Europe.

According to reports, an additional 30 containers onboard were damaged as the ship battled high winds and waves ranging from 12 to 20 feet.

Despite the loss, CMA CGM stated that the vessel remains fully seaworthy, with no substantial damage, crew injuries, or pollution issues other than the containers lost at sea.

The company stated that all lost containers carried harmless goods and did not transport any hazardous materials.

The CMA CGM Benjamin Franklin, built in 2015 and with a capacity of over 18,000 TEU, is scheduled for a full inspection in Cape Town following the incident.

The liner company has stated that it has taken all necessary precautions to ensure the safety of the current voyage and is constantly communicating with affected customers to provide support and information.

The incident occurred during heightened scrutiny of container losses by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), which recently tightened regulations to improve reporting and management of such incidents.

While maritime sector reports indicate record-low container losses, comprehensive reporting remains an issue.

The weather conditions that caused this loss also affected maritime activities in the region, causing container ships to reroute away from the Cape of Good Hope due to waves exceeding 10 meters high and continuing storm warnings.

According to reports, further adverse conditions, including the potential impact of an approaching hurricane, will continue to provide issues for shipping in the area.

As the situation evolves, maritime authorities and shipping corporations constantly monitor weather patterns and take precautions to reduce threats to vessels passing through South African waters.

Reference: Tradewinds, Port Technology

CMA CGM Vessel Loses 44 Containers Due To Severe Storm Off South African Coast appeared first on Marine Insight – The Maritime Industry Guide

Source: Maritime Shipping News