On July 12, 2021, the bulk carrier Jalma Topic was transiting upriver on the Lower Mississippi River when it lost steering and struck a stationary barge that was being used for office space. No injuries were reported.

Six of the derailed hopper cars entered the river. Two train personnel sustained minor injuries. During a transit downriver, strong wind gusts made the situation unsafe for the Baxter Southern to continue the voyage as planned.

The crewman immediately brought to the accommodation and given first aid. After consulting the company doctor, he was started on a course of antibiotics as a precautionary measure.

A VLCC in ballast was approaching port for anchoring. The pilot was confirmed for 10:00. Weather conditions were good with a northerly wind of about 10 knots.

The Chief Officer heard the deck cadet’s radio transmission and went to the access hatch. He immediately recognised the need to carry out an enclosed space rescue.

An offshore supply vessel left the berth upstream of the buoy tender and was outbound. Around this time, the buoy tender crew had secured a large buoy on deck; the crew were heaving in the chain.

A tug was pushing two steel tank barges loaded with naphtha on an inland waterway. The Master had been at the con/helm for several hours before retiring to his cabin for some rest. About 4.5 hours later, a little after 0500, the Master awoke and proceeded to the wheelhouse to assume the watch, even though his watch normally started at 0600.

A loaded general cargo vessel left berth to anchor in the river for repairs before proceeding to sea. The pilot decided to use both anchors; however, rough weather resulted in a minor collision with another anchored ship.

In darkness, a vessel was proceeding to a busy anchorage under the con of a pilot who had just boarded. The pilot and the Master engaged in small talk as they proceeded and there was also an OOW and a lookout on the bridge.