Stricken tanker may split in two
The Coastguard near Plymouth in the UK have said a crack has developed in the hull of the tanker which went aground there last night and there is a possibility it could split in two.
Seventy five people have been evacuated from their homes because of the potential danger of an explosion aboard the 3,000 tonne fuel tanker.
Police said that people living nearest to the scene had been taken to the local village hall.
They also say diversions have been set up on roads around the area.
The Cypriot vessel Willy went aground at Cawsands, near Plymouth, at about 10.45pm, having been at anchor in Cawsands Bay after discharging a cargo of petrol in Plymouth.
Devon and Cornwall Police believe the tanker has holes in its port and starboard tanks.
The tanker's crew of 12 left the vessel during the night, when they were able to climb off it on to the rocks.
Two tugs, one the Coastguard vessel Far Sky, are at the scene monitoring the situation.
Coastguard press officer Wailim Wong said today the tanker was embedded on rocks, and at high tide it was hoped to attach cables to stabilise her.
‘‘The main concern is the possibility of an explosion caused by fumes in the empty tanks,’’ he said.
The cables were being attached to stop the vessel moving about on rocks and possibly creating a spark. ‘‘If the vessel it stabilised it should ease matters,’’ he said.
The Willy, which went aground in easterly gales, had damage to her hull, and had taken on water in the engine room.
