Storm Charles has affected refueling operations in the Strait of Gibraltar and its surrounding areas due to strong winds and heavy rainfall this week. These unfavorable weather conditions have led to delays in the arrival of ships at the port of Gibraltar and the suspension of refueling operations in Huelva and Las Palmas.
Weather Conditions and Their Impact on Maritime Traffic
In Gibraltar and Algeciras, westerly winds of about 25 knots are forecasted, prompting the Gibraltar Port Authority to issue a severe weather warning. According to a port representative, maritime traffic operations have been suspended due to this warning, and the entry of ships into the port has been halted. However, refueling operations outside the port's restrictions are currently continuing.
Currently, eight ships are waiting to receive fuel at the port of Gibraltar. Fuel suppliers are experiencing delays of 4 to 14 hours in delivery due to weather conditions. These delays may increase due to the suspension of operations.
Situation in Neighboring Ports
In Algeciras, the entry of ships into the internal anchorage has been halted due to strong winds. However, the external delta anchorage, which focuses on refueling operations, remains open. A port representative has stated that some suppliers may face delays of about one day.
Refueling operations at the external anchorage of Las Palmas have also been suspended due to winds of about 25 knots and waves reaching 1.5 meters. Nevertheless, fuel delivery at the anchorage and internal anchorage may still be possible, but will be accompanied by delays.
Refueling operations in Tenerife are also expected to be suspended for at least two days. In Huelva, adverse weather conditions have halted refueling operations since Monday. Only one fuel barge is servicing the port, so delays due to rescheduling of deliveries are likely.
