The tanker, which was transporting heavy fuel oil, caught fire around 9:10 a.m., according to the German news agency DPA. All seven crew members on board were safely evacuated, and firefighting efforts are currently underway.
The 73-meter tanker, sailing under the German flag, had departed from the port of Rostock carrying several hundred tons of heavy fuel oil. The fire is believed to have originated in the engine room, though the exact cause remains unknown at this time.
Thick black smoke was visible from the German Baltic coast throughout the morning, with witnesses reporting multiple explosions. Emergency response teams, including a sea rescue cruiser, two additional ships, and a helicopter, were swiftly deployed to the scene.
Authorities have confirmed that, as of now, the fire has not caused any water pollution, according to the Ministry of Environment of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania.
Efforts to contain the blaze continue, with firefighters working diligently to bring the situation under control. The incident has raised concerns about potential environmental risks, given the ship’s cargo of fuel oil, but officials are closely monitoring the situation for any signs of contamination.
(jh)
Source: RMF24