Salvage operations are underway to reopen a navigational channel to Pier G at the Port of Long Beach, after approximately 75 containers fell from the cargo ship Mississippi.
The Unified Command—comprising federal, state, and local agencies, along with vessel representatives—met again on 10 September to coordinate the response.
Two submerged containers were recovered from the basin, and responders secured a fuel leak from an emissions control barge moored alongside the vessel.
The leak originated from a tank containing approximately 2,000 gallons of renewable diesel .
Port operations remain largely unaffected, aside from a 500-yard safety zone around the Mississippi, which was carrying 2,412 containers at the time.
The incident began at 8:48 a.m. on 9 September. The Coast Guard, Jacobsen Port Pilots, and port officials are managing vessel traffic within the safety zone. One minor injury has been reported.
Long Beach Mayor, Rex Richardson, said: “While events like this are extremely rare at the Port of Long Beach, they underscore the importance of protecting the safety of our workers, first responders and the public. Our focus remains on a full recovery and supporting the U.S. Coast Guard’s thorough investigation.”
Capt. Stacey Crecy, U.S. Coast Guard, Sector Los Angeles-Long Beach, stated: “This is still a dynamic situation with many unknowns. However, we have contingency plans in place and are working with the intent to restore all port activities as soon and as safely as possible.”
The Port of Long Beach has 22 cargo terminals; six handle containers.
The U.S. Coast Guard and National Transportation Safety Board are leading the investigation.
Sonar surveys continue to locate 25–30 submerged containers. Recovered containers are being held in a boom-secured area.
Nonessential personnel are advised to avoid the area. The Coast Guard is broadcasting hourly safety updates for mariners.
Recently, the Port of Long Beach invested $102 million to purchase and sustain zero-emissions cargo-handling equipment, fund cleaner marine engines and plan for a zero-carbon future at terminals.
