A massive north Atlantic oil rig crashed into Scotland’s west coast early Monday morning, after severe weather caused it to break loose from the tug boat it was connected to.
The 17,000 tonne rig, which was holding 280 metric tonnes of diesel, slammed into a beach near Dalmore, on Scotland’s Western Isles, causing police to close the popular surfing spot.
Initial reports said fumes could be smelled, but it’s believed there is no damage to the 92-metre-long vessel.
The Maritime and Coastguard Agency is monitoring the impact on the environment, while the Marine Accident Investigation Branch has launched a probe into the incident.
The Transocean rig was being towed from Norway to Malta when gale force winds and rough seas caused the tow line to snap. Sea conditions prevented the crew from re-connecting the rig.
Authorities are working on a plan, and commissioning salvage tug boats, to refloat the rig from the surf. The earliest attempt could be made Tuesday.