Two Russian oil tankers have sunk in the Black Sea due to harsh weather, prompting immediate clean-up efforts as oil starts to leak into the water.
Two Russian Oil Tankers Capsize in Black Sea, Prompting Major Spill Response
Two Russian Oil Tankers Capsize in Black Sea, Prompting Major Spill Response
Severe weather conditions lead to sunk vessels, leaks, and ongoing rescue efforts.
In a disturbing development, two Russian oil tankers have reportedly sunk in the Black Sea, with 29 crew members on board, according to Russian officials. Extreme weather is said to have played a significant role in the incident, leading to the vessels' demise. Unverified footage circulating on social media seemingly depicts one of the tankers breaking apart and succumbing to the tumultuous waves during the storm, creating prominent streaks of oil in the water.
The event unfolded in the Kerch Strait, a crucial maritime passage that divides mainland Russia and the Crimean peninsula, currently under Russian control. In response to the sinking, authorities have mobilized multiple resources for rescue operations, which include two tugboats and two helicopters, along with a team of over 50 personnel to manage the situation, as reported by TASS news agency.
"Today, as a result of a storm in the Black Sea, two tankers, Volgoneft-212 and Volgoneft-239, sank," stated Russia's federal sea and inland water transport agency, Rosmorrechflot. The agency confirmed that the crews consisted of 15 and 14 members aboard the respective ships. The statement further revealed that the incident has resulted in an oil spill, raising environmental concerns in the region.
