BUFFALO, N.Y. — After being trapped for several days in the frigid waters of Lake Erie, a freighter is making its way to Canada following a successful ice-breaking operation, according to reports from the U.S. Coast Guard.
The vessel, known as the Manitoulin, measures 663 feet (202 meters) and had a crew of 17 aboard. It encountered ice on Lake Erie on Wednesday after delivering a load of wheat in Buffalo, New York, and was heading back to Canada when it became stuck. Fortunately, the ship was freed on Saturday.
Authorities confirmed that there was no damage to the ship and that the crew is safe. During winter months, freighters navigating the Great Lakes frequently contend with surface ice, but occasionally they face ice that is too thick or sturdy to break through easily.
Since Thursday, a U.S. Coast Guard icebreaker had been engaged in efforts to assist the Manitoulin, and as of Saturday, a second icebreaker was dispatched to the scene along with support from the Canadian Coast Guard. Together, the icebreakers escorted the trapped freighter through over 20 miles (32 kilometers) of ice from Buffalo, guiding it to clear water by Saturday evening, stated Lt. Kyle Rivera from the Coast Guard.
The Manitoulin still has a journey ahead as it must navigate the remainder of Lake Erie and then proceed up the Detroit and St. Clair rivers to reach Sarnia, Ontario, where it will remain for the winter, Rivera added.
Although there may be ice in other sections of the lake and rivers, the icebreaker fleet has the capacity to guide the vessel through these challenging areas.
In addition, a U.S. Coast Guard helicopter was deployed to the area to oversee the situation, and a third Coast Guard vessel is set to arrive on Monday in the event that any issues arise, particularly if the Manitoulin encounters further difficulties.
