Maritime traffic between Tarifa, Spain, and Tangier, Morocco, was suspended on Thursday at 6 p.m. due to severe weather in the Strait of Gibraltar. The first scheduled crossing for Friday has also been canceled, affecting travelers and cargo operations. Passengers are advised to stay updated on the situation.
La Niña conditions have developed in the equatorial Pacific, expected to persist through winter 2025-26, with a 55% chance of transitioning to ENSO-neutral by early 2026. Notably, below-average sea surface temperatures and specific wind patterns are evident, impacting stakeholders like the Panama Canal Authority amid recent transit challenges.
Bad weather and high seas off South Africa are causing major disruptions to shipping, with several ports closed and container traffic at a standstill. Forecasters predict more storms, impacting global shipping routes. SAMSA is conducting a salvage operation for a stranded cargo ship, while vessels are diverted away from the Red Sea due to rough seas.
The crew of a Panama-registered general cargo ship abandoned their vessel off the South African coast due to severe weather conditions. The South Africa Maritime Safety Authority received a distress signal and dispatched rescue vessels. The crew, consisting of 18 Filipino seafarers, was rescued and the abandoned ship was left listing precariously. The incident raised concerns about navigating the Cape of Good Hope during winter storms.
Inmarsat Maritime, a Viasat business, has generously donated a bridge simulator to Warsash Maritime School in Southampton, UK. The simulator, previously at Inmarsat’s London headquarters, allows students to practice distress situations in a safe environment. This donation reflects Inmarsat’s commitment to maritime safety and education, aiming to save lives at sea.
