The barge Defiant was successfully refloated from the shoreline of Castillo San Felipe del Morro early Wednesday, just before high tide. Tugboats and salvage crews worked meticulously, pressurizing cargo tanks to ensure a smooth operation. Capt. Luis J. Rodríguez praised the collaborative efforts that safeguarded San Juan’s maritime transportation and environment.
Rough sea conditions are complicating salvage efforts for the tank barge Defiant, which ran aground at San Juan’s harbor entrance. Trapped between rock formations, the barge is facing heavy surf, with waves reaching 10 to 12 feet. Authorities are monitoring for potential fuel spills as they await calmer weather.
A recent coast guard inspection at the Puerto Nuevo terminal in San Juan, Puerto Rico uncovered an unauthorized delivery of anhydrous ammonia, a dangerous substance. Despite existing restrictions due to inadequate firefighting capabilities, three tank containers were found, one containing over 5,000 gallons of the toxic and flammable chemical. An investigation is initiated.
