The U.S. and Canadian Coast Guards responded to the container vessel Zim Kingston that lost 40 containers during heavy weather 40 miles from the Strait of Juan de Fuca.
The lost containers were initially reported to be general containers with no dangerous cargo. That report was updated at 2pm reporting two containers had dangerous materials.
No injuries were reported to any crew members.
The Coast Guard conducted a flyover at 10 a.m. An Air Station Port Angeles crew was able to locate 35 of the containers and deployed a self-locating datum marker buoy to monitor the movement of the containers.
The U.S. Coast Guard and Canadian agencies continue to monitor the shipping containers.
Zim Kingston moored 5 miles from Victoria, British Columbia.
Then, at approximately 11:11 a.m. Saturday Rescue Coordination Centre Victoria reported to the Zim Kingston to have two containers on fire. Sector Puget Sound and RCC Victoria arranged an overflight to monitor the area. Coast Guard did an overflight to capture imagery.
Both the U.S. Coast Guard and Canadian Coast Guard continue to broadcast warnings as the containers pose a significant risk to mariners.
The safety of the remaining crew on the ship, and the responders on the water, is the top priority as the response operations proceed. Unified Command is working through the Emergency Management British Columbia network through local communities to broadcast public safety information as required. Further updates will be provided once the response is underway.
This is a serious incident that is still unfolding. Crew are still in harm’s way and their wellbeing is at risk.