Freighter Rescued from Frozen Lake Erie Ice After Days of Being Stuck
A dramatic rescue operation unfolded on Lake Erie as the Manitoulin, a 663-foot Canadian vessel with 17 crew members on board, found itself trapped in the icy clutches of the lake. The freighter had gotten stuck in the ice on Wednesday after making a delivery of wheat in Buffalo, New York, and was en route back to Canada. The U.S. Coast Guard sprang into action to assist the stranded ship, which was finally freed on Saturday.
Surface ice is a common challenge for freighters navigating the Great Lakes during winter, but occasionally, as in this case, the ice can prove too thick and unyielding. The Manitoulin’s crew, however, emerged unscathed, much to the relief of officials overseeing the rescue mission. A U.S. Coast Guard icebreaking vessel had been tirelessly working to clear a path for the freighter since Thursday, and on Saturday, a second ship joined the effort, with the Canadian Coast Guard also lending a hand.
Led by three icebreakers, the freighter made its way through more than 20 miles of ice from Buffalo to the open waters of Lake Erie on Saturday night, marking a significant milestone in its journey. According to Lt. Kyle Rivera of the Coast Guard, the Manitoulin is now bound for Sarnia, Ontario, where it will remain docked for the winter. While there are still icy patches along the remainder of the route, another cutter has been assigned to guide the freighter through these treacherous waters.
As the rescue operation unfolded, a U.S. Coast Guard helicopter conducted aerial surveillance of the scene, ensuring that the Manitoulin’s progress was closely monitored. Additionally, a third U.S. Coast Guard vessel was en route to the area, scheduled to arrive on Monday in case further assistance was required.
In the end, the successful rescue of the Manitoulin stands as a testament to the skill and dedication of the Coast Guard personnel involved in the operation. While the freighter’s ordeal served as a reminder of the unpredictable challenges posed by winter navigation in the Great Lakes, the safe resolution of the situation brought a sense of relief and gratitude to all those involved.
Copyright The Associated Press
