Oil tanker spills fuel in North Sea collision with cargo ship carrying sodium cyanide sparking fears of—
A dramatic collision between a cargo ship and a US military-chartered oil tanker off the northeast coast of England has sparked fears of environmental damage and raised concerns about hazardous materials. The cargo vessel, carrying sodium cyanide, collided with the tanker, causing a massive fire and prompting a large-scale rescue operation.
What Happened?
On Monday, March 10, 2025, the Portuguese-flagged cargo ship Solong collided with the Stena Immaculate, a US military tanker anchored in the North Sea, approximately 10 miles off the English coastline. The incident, captured in viral social media videos, showed black smoke billowing into the sky as flames engulfed at least one of the vessels.
- Time of Collision: Around 10 a.m. local time (6 a.m. ET).
- Location: North Sea, near the northeast coast of England.
- Vessels Involved: Solong (cargo ship) and Stena Immaculate (oil tanker).
Rescue Efforts and Casualties
The collision triggered an extensive rescue operation. Of the 14 crew members aboard the Solong, 13 were safely brought to shore. However, one crew member remains missing, and search efforts have been called off.
The Stena Immaculate, managed by US logistics firm Crowley, reported no casualties among its crew. However, 36 individuals were treated by ambulance services after reaching the shore, according to Alastair Smith of the East Midlands Ambulance Service NHS Trust.
Hazardous Cargo: Sodium Cyanide on Board
The Solong was carrying 15 containers of sodium cyanide, a highly toxic chemical, along with an unknown quantity of alcohol. Sodium cyanide can release hydrogen cyanide gas, which is extremely dangerous and interferes with the body’s ability to use oxygen.
- Environmental Risks: It is unclear whether the sodium cyanide has leaked into the water. If it has, the chemical could pose significant environmental and health hazards.
- Chemical Reaction: Sodium cyanide can turn into hydrogen cyanide upon contact with water, increasing the risk of contamination.
Damage to the Vessels
Both ships sustained significant damage from the collision and subsequent fire. The Stena Immaculate was carrying military jet fuel and marine diesel, en route to Killingholme, England, as part of a long-term charter with the US Defense Logistics Agency (DLA).
- Cargo on the Tanker: Military jet fuel and marine diesel.
- Destination: Killingholme, England, with plans to reload and deliver fuel to Mediterranean locations.
The Solong had departed from Grangemouth, Scotland, on Sunday evening and was headed to Rotterdam, Netherlands, at the time of the collision.
Environmental and Safety Concerns
The incident has raised alarms about potential environmental damage, particularly due to the presence of sodium cyanide and the fuel carried by the tanker. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation to assess the impact on marine life and coastal areas.
Key Takeaways
- A cargo ship carrying sodium cyanide collided with a US military tanker, causing a massive fire.
- One crew member is missing, and 36 individuals were treated for injuries.
- Environmental risks are high due to the presence of toxic chemicals and fuel.
- Authorities are investigating the extent of the damage and potential contamination.
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