Container Stack Collapse on MSC Houston V Prompts Emergency Port Call in Vigo, Spain
Authorities in the Port of Vigo, Spain, sprang into action recently when the MSC Houston V containership encountered a stack collapse, causing a navigation hazard. The vessel, with a deadweight tonnage of 58,300, was swiftly directed to port to prevent further damage and potential loss of more containers overboard.
The incident occurred off the southwest coast of Portugal near Cape St. Vincent during a severe late winter storm, with wind speeds reaching up to 50 knots. The collapse of the last stack at the stern of the vessel resulted in several containers being ripped open and hanging over the side of the ship, drawing attention upon its arrival in Vigo on Friday, March 21.
Upon inspection in Vigo, it was determined that approximately 15 to 20 containers had fallen overboard. Port authorities have confirmed that the containers did not contain any hazardous materials. However, Portuguese authorities issued a navigational warning regarding possible debris in the water.
The MSC Houston V, en route from Piraeus, Greece, to Liverpool, England, was unable to divert to Leixoes, Portugal, due to its size. The vessel, measuring 876 feet (267 meters) in length with a draft of 41 feet (12.5 meters) and a capacity of 4,432 TEU, has been in operation for MSC since 2022 and is registered in Portugal.
Efforts to stabilize the cargo on the vessel are deemed complex by port officials. Specialized equipment, including mobile cranes, has been brought in for the repositioning operation. Reports suggest that the repositioning process commenced on Sunday, March 23, with the vessel scheduled to remain in Vigo until March 27, as per MSC’s online schedule.
Stay tuned for updates on the ongoing operations to secure the containers and ensure the safe continuation of the MSC Houston V‘s voyage.