Ship operators should be aware that with the present global changing weather patterns, certain waterways, known as “Hydrovia” (or “Hidrovia”) in Argentina, have shown unusually low water levels.
As a result, Steamship warns that there is an increased risk of ships going aground if proper precautions are not taken during the navigational transit of these waters, especially during the High Transit Season.
In fact, the Club has experienced many incidents in the past of groundings or other navigational incidents in these waterways, and these occurrences can led to substantial claims.
It is important to note that the present weather conditions are not predicted to change in the next few weeks.
In view of the above, operators should direct their masters navigating in the rivers of Argentina i.e. Hydrovia, to take appropriate precautions and to take advice from the Coast Guard through its VTS Centres when transiting the affected waterways.
