Fire-Stricken Cargo Ship Laden with Lithium-ion Batteries Docks in Dutch Port

The M/V Genius Star XI, a ship carrying lithium-ion batteries, experienced a fire in one of its cargo holds last week while anchored near Dutch Harbor, Alaska. The U.S. Coast Guard confirmed that the ship poses no immediate threat, and as a precautionary measure, it was relocated to Broad Bay to avoid storms. On-site assessment teams reported normal air quality and no signs of heat in or around the cargo holds. The presence of lithium-ion batteries heightened concerns, but the atmosphere in the affected hold remained non-flammable, indicating no immediate fire threat.

Following the incident, the Coast Guard directed the M/V Genius Star XI to continue towards Dutch Harbor and await further instructions offshore. A one-mile security zone is in effect around the ship, and rescue operations are being coordinated by the Unified Command, which includes the Coast Guard captain, Gallagher Marine Systems, and the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation. Once rescue operations are complete, an investigation will be conducted to determine the cause of the cargo hold fire. Despite the ship being at anchor, its engines remain warm and a tugboat is on standby in case adverse weather conditions require a move.

The ship, registered in Panama and operated by Wisdom Lines in Taiwan, was en route from Vietnam to Dutch Harbor when the fire broke out.

Source .