Latest Update: The Pan Viva is headed out to sea again after weathering out the intense storm. See https://alaskapublic.org/2024/10/15/cargo-ship-headed-to-sea-after-weathering-intense-unalaska-storm/ for further details.
The bulk cargo ship Pan Viva, carrying 300K gallons of fuel (equivalent to 1.1 million litres) and 21 crew members, is anchored near Unalaska, battling extreme weather conditions. With 9-metre waves and wind gusts of just over 90 km/h, the ship is in distress, raising concerns for both the crew’s safety and the risk of an environmental disaster.
Coastguard Evacuation
In response to the dangerous situation, the Alaskan Coastguard evacuated four crew members from the Pan Viva as a precaution, leaving 17 on board. The ship is anchored using 240 metres of anchor line—more than double the length of a rugby field—to remain outside the shallower waters of the bay, avoiding the risk of grounding.
Environmental and Safety Concerns
The ship’s cargo of 1.1 million litres of fuel presents a serious threat to the environment if the vessel is compromised. The Coastguard is closely monitoring the situation, prepared to act if the storm worsens and the ship’s position becomes unstable.
While the ship remains anchored for now, the combination of high seas and fierce winds continues to make the situation precarious.
