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A large MSC containership to broke free from its moorings Tuesday at the port of Durban, South Africa as a powerful storm swept through the area, blowing the ship across the harbor before blocking the entrance to the port.

South Africa's Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) confirmed that all vessel movements had been suspended in the Port of Durban due to what it described as “inclement weather”.

“Transnet’s marine services team and tugboats are assisting with several emergencies. These include the grounding of three vessels in the Port of Durban. Other vessels have broken mooring lines and are drifting in the channel,” the authority said.

Local news reports showed severe flooding in Durban and video of an MSC containership which was blocking the harbour entrance. Four tugs were reported to be trying to the containership clear according to the TimesLive.

The policeman was crushed to death when a container dislodged by the storm fell on his car. His partner was injured. Four other people were reported dead, including a toddler who was washed away when a creche was flooded.TNPA reported terminal and rail operations suspended. “Whilst we are still in the process of determining damage to port infrastructure. Several TNPA premises have been flooded including the Transnet Maritime School of Excellence in Bayhead Road. Terminal and rail operations have been suspended to ensure the safety of people and equipment,” it said.

Operations at the Port of Richards Bay were also expected to be disrupted.

Source: gCaptain, Seatrade-Maritime News, iol