Storm surge and high winds have worsened the condition of the grounded MSC Baltic III on Newfoundland’s west coast, with debris now washing ashore.
Storm Conditions Intensify Damage
The container ship MSC Baltic III, grounded off Lark Harbour on Newfoundland’s west coast since February, has sustained further damage after days of extreme winds and rough seas. The Canadian Coast Guard confirmed Friday that recent storms caused visible deterioration along the ship’s port side, along with significant shifting at both the bow and stern.
Location and Weather Impact
The vessel has remained stranded in the rocky coastal area for months, where severe weather this week generated storm surge and heavy wave action. These conditions have not only worsened the ship’s structural state, but have also contributed to debris breaking loose and washing up along the shoreline.
Ongoing Salvage Efforts
Cleanup and salvage teams have been working around the vessel since its grounding, removing fuel and cargo materials. Canadian Coast Guard senior response officials previously indicated that full removal of the ship was unlikely before summer 2026, due to the complexity of safely extracting remaining oil and stabilizing the hull.
New Damage Reported by Crews
On Friday, salvage crews reported equipment damage aboard the vessel as the storm intensified. They also noted fragments of material drifting in surrounding waters and settling along nearby beaches. The Coast Guard emphasized that monitoring and shoreline cleanup crews are already responding to the new debris.
Assessment Underway
By Saturday, response teams were back on site to evaluate the extent of fresh structural damage. Findings from this assessment will guide the next phase of stabilization and cleanup efforts. The Coast Guard says it will continue issuing public updates as conditions evolve.
Community and Environmental Considerations
Local residents and fishers in Lark Harbour have been monitoring the ship’s condition closely, given the risk of pollution along the ecologically sensitive coastline. The Coast Guard says remaining oil extraction is still a priority, and response crews are prepared to intensify shoreline protection measures if needed.
