These reports describe significant environmental incidents reported to and tracked by the National Response Center. They reflect both new incidents and follow-up information describing actions taken for previously reported events. The NRC publishes Incident Summary Reports periodically upon receipt of documentary information from the Federal On-Scene Coordinator.
| Occurrence Date: | 19 November |
|---|---|
| Location: | San Juan, PR |
| Source: | M/V Sergo Zakariadze |
| Material: | Fuel Oil and Lube Oil |
| Severity: | Potential Major |
| Quantity Discharged: | None |
| Quantity in Water: | None |
| Body of Water Affected: | San Juan Harbor |
| Federal On-Scene Coordinator: | MSO San Juan |
On November 18,1999 the 500 foot tanker Sergo Zakariadze ran aground at the entrance channel to San Juan harbor. Several ballast tanks have sustained damage, however no spill has occurred at this time. The vessel was carrying approximately 165,000 gallons of intermediate fuel oil, 15,000 gallons of marine grade fuel oil, 25,000 gallons of lubricating oil and 17,000 tons of cement in bulk. The U.S. Coast Guard has established a unified commmand/incident command center at Marine Safety Office San Juan. The U.S. Coast Guard Strike Team, Navy Supervisor of Salvage(SUPSALV) and a Scientific Support Coordinator from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration are also on scene. Oil lightering operations to a tugboat have commenced and personnel are inspecting the hull every four hours for evidence of vessel fatigue. Cement lightering options continue to be examined. The cause of the steering loss is still under investigation. CASE PENDS