Baltimore Bridge Collapses After Ship Strike
A major bridge in Baltimore, Maryland, collapsed early Tuesday morning. The Francis Scott Key Bridge was struck by a large container ship. Several vehicles fell into the Patapsco River as a result.
Emergency Response
Emergency crews are currently searching for survivors in the water. The collapse occurred around 1:30 a.m. local time. Officials are working to assess the full extent of the damage and rescue those affected.
What We Know
The container ship, called the Dali, hit one of the bridge’s support columns. This caused a large section of the bridge to fall into the river. The ship had reported a power issue shortly before the collision. The ship is operated by Synergy Marine Group and chartered by Maersk.
Search and Rescue Efforts
Multiple agencies are involved in the search and rescue operation. These include the U.S. Coast Guard and local fire departments. Divers are searching the water for possible victims. The water temperature is a major concern for rescuers.
Impact on Traffic
The bridge collapse has caused major disruptions to traffic in the Baltimore area. The Key Bridge is a major thoroughfare for vehicles traveling around and through Baltimore. The port of Baltimore is also expected to experience significant delays. Transportation officials are working to reroute traffic and minimize delays. However, commuters should expect significant travel impacts.
Investigation Underway
An investigation into the cause of the accident is underway. Investigators will examine the ship’s logs and the circumstances leading up to the collision. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is sending a team to investigate. They will determine the factors that contributed to the bridge collapse.
Governor Moore’s Statement
Maryland Governor Wes Moore has declared a state of emergency. He stated that the state is working to deploy all available resources. The focus is on rescue efforts and supporting those affected. Further updates will be provided as the situation develops. The White House is also monitoring the situation.
Source: bbc.com
