Tanker Runs Aground in Taiwan Amid Severe Weather Conditions

On December 7, the products tanker Liquid Gem ran aground off the coast of Taiwan due to extreme weather. While the Taiwanese Coast Guard successfully rescued 14 of the 15 crew members, the search for one missing sailor remains ongoing.

The grounding took place near Taichung Port, with severe weather playing a major role in the incident. High-speed winds reaching Force 10 caused the vessel to drift uncontrollably towards the shore. The tanker eventually grounded on a sandy embankment south of Taichung Port, tilting at a 15-degree angle.

Taiwan’s Coast Guard first noticed the vessel's unusual navigation path, tracking its approach to the coast at a speed of about 2 knots. Recognizing the imminent danger, authorities deployed resources to assist. However, strong winds and shallow waters rendered traditional rescue methods ineffective. Instead, a crane from the shore was used to extract crew members from the stricken vessel.

Of the 15 crew members on board, 12 were lifted off using the crane. Three others had jumped into the water earlier, fearing the vessel would capsize. Two of these sailors were safely rescued, but one, a 47-year-old Chinese national, remains unaccounted for as search efforts continue.

The incident caused significant hull damage, leading to water ingress in the engine room and raising concerns about pollution. An oil spill containment operation was swiftly launched. Fortunately, the tanker was carrying only a small quantity of fuel—around 110 tons. Salvage teams sealed the exhaust valves to prevent further leaks, and authorities have confirmed plans to pump out all remaining fuel by December 10.

Investigations are underway to determine the full extent of the damage, while authorities continue their efforts to locate the missing crew member.