On the morning of 1 November, the chemical tanker Southern Puma and the bulk carrier Louisa Bolten collided in the Strait of Gibraltar, approximately 20 miles southeast of Punta Europa and 15 miles east of Ceuta.
According to Spanish media, the collision caused damage to the Southern Puma, which was carrying 600 tons of paraffin scheduled for unloading at San Roque, resulting in a spill of about 500 cubic meters (500,000 liters) of paraffin into the water. The Louisa Bolten sustained minor bow damage, but no crew members from either vessel were injured.
The Maritime Rescue Coordination Center in Tarifa dispatched the vessels Luz de Mar and Salvamar Denébola to the site. Preliminary assessments detected a scent resembling cleaning products and a visible sheen, with samples collected for analysis. An aerial inspection by the Helimer 220 helicopter confirmed a small spill visible near the Southern Puma. The Algeciras Maritime Authority has instructed the Southern Puma to anchor 12 miles offshore until further inspection and cleanup measures can be coordinated.
Due to the strong currents in the Strait of Gibraltar, maritime authorities are closely monitoring the spill. Specialized containment teams are on standby to prevent further spread, although the paraffin is expected to partially evaporate
Environmental groups have called for further investigation, citing potential harm to marine life in the region due to paraffin’s petroleum origin.es
