Navigating Troubles at Iffezheim: Ships Still Stuck Despite Decreasing Water Levels
Despite the drop in water levels, a messy situation persists at Iffezheim on the Upper Rhine, with around 35 vessels still stuck in the lock due to recent high water levels. The Upper Rhine Waterways and Shipping Office (WSA) spokesperson hinted at smoother sailing by late Tuesday evening, but they cautioned that it might take until Wednesday morning to untangle the congestion.
Navigation was halted a few days ago between Iffezheim and Germersheim, Rhineland-Palatinate, after the water level in Karlsruhe-Maxau hit and breached the 7.50-meter mark. According to the Baden-Württemberg Flood Forecasting Center (HVZ), the water level should drop below this critical mark by Tuesday evening, allowing ships to resume their voyages.
Several factors contribute to the persisting logjam. The faster and emptier ships will move first to balance the journey ahead. Only a single lock chamber is in operation now, with another out of commission since a cargo ship bumped into a closed lock gate on November 11.
The HVZ reported that the critical level was also surpassed at the Hauenstein gauge on Tuesday, in addition to Maxau. However, the German Weather Service (DWD) anticipates a gradual decrease in rainfall throughout the night from Wednesday, following short, intermittent showers.
As stormy weather subsides at Iffezheim, the shipping jam might persist until Wednesday, despite the forecasted decrease in rainfall. The backlog and limited lock capacity are the primary reasons for this prolonged delay.
Keep in mind that while this article provides insights into the current situation, you may require more recent and detailed reports from authorities or shipping firms to obtain the most accurate information related to this shipping jam.
