Why is the Cargo Ship Advised to Stay in Deep Water During a Storm?

When faced with severe weather conditions, cargo ships are typically advised to anchor in deep water. This practice is a vital safety measure to protect the ship, its crew, and the cargo. However, as demonstrated by tragic incidents such as the sinking of the El Faro, navigating through storms is not always a straightforward task. In this article, we will delve into why deep water is the preferred location for cargo ships during storms.

Objective: Ensuring Safety

The primary objective of recommending deep water during storms is to enhance safety. By staying in deep water, cargo ships can significantly reduce the risk of several hazards that are prevalent in shallow waters.

Reducing the Risk of Grounding

In shallow waters, cargo ships are more vulnerable to encounters with the seabed, which can result in grounding. Deep water provides a safer environment as the lower pressure helps prevent the ship from being grounded. For example, in waters over 5000 meters deep, such as those the El Faro encountered, the risk of grounding is minimized even further. This safety measure is clearly crucial for ships navigating through stormy conditions.

Effectively Handling Larger Waves

Deep water allows ships to ride out larger waves more effectively. Shallow waters increase the likelihood of waves becoming steeper and more dangerous, which can cause significant damage to the vessel. By staying in deep water, ships can navigate through these huge waves with far fewer risks of capsizing or sustaining severe damage.

Avoiding Navigational Hazards

In addition to waves, severe storms often bring with them navigational hazards such as reefs, rocks, and shallow areas. These hazards can be particularly dangerous during stormy conditions, and deep water provides a safer navigational route. By staying in deep water, cargo ships can avoid these dangers and minimize the risk of accident or damage to the ship and its cargo.

Reducing Congestion in Shallow Waters

During storms, many cargo ships seek shelter in ports, leading to congestion and delays. By staying in deep water, ships can avoid these delays and potential collisions in crowded harbor areas. This freedom allows for quicker and smoother navigation, contributing to overall safety and efficiency.

Controlled Movement and Maneuvering

Deep water also offers more space for cargo ships to maneuver, allowing them to adjust their heading and speed more effectively. This flexibility is essential during storms when ships need to avoid the worst of the weather. It helps in reducing the impact of wind and waves, minimizing the risks associated with severe weather.

It's important to note, however, that this advice is not always followed due to various factors such as the ship's mission, cargo, and the urgency of the delivery. While there are instances where staying in deep water is the best option, there are also situations where finding shelter, if possible, is more critical. The El Faro is a notable example where staying in deep water did not prevent the disaster. Nonetheless, the general principle remains valid: maximizing safety is the utmost priority.

In conclusion, the practice of advising cargo ships to stay in deep water during storms is a proven strategy to enhance safety. While not always feasible, it is a critical measure to protect the ship, its crew, and the cargo from the dangers associated with shallow waters during severe weather conditions.