Towage of damaged Russian LNG tanker fails after adverse weather

The fate of the damaged LNG tanker Arctic Metagaz remains uncertain as a Libyan-led towing operation which is currently ongoing remains technically challenging.

In recent days, the towing operation has faced a number of difficulties due to adverse weather conditions.

Libyan authorities reported last week that towing efforts broke down in worsening weather conditions.

The last attempt on March 2 to tow the 2003-built vessel failed due to severe weather conditions amid strong winds and high seas.

“The tugboat is unable ​to return to re-tie it under these hazardous ⁠weather conditions,” the authorities said in a ​navigational warning letter on Thursday.

It ​requested all ships and marine units to avoid ​the area and advised them to stay at least 10 ‌nautical ⁠miles away from the location.

It also advised vessels that spot the tanker to report any updates regarding the tanker’s condition by contacting the Libyan Search and Rescue Center.

The towing operation was halted at 4am on April 2 due to severe weather caused by a deep low-pressure system. During this time, wave heights rose up to 5 metres and wind speeds reached approximately 40 knots.

The path of the tanker and the tugs is being monitored around the clock