Zinc-Calcium Bromide Barge; Mississippi River, West Memphis, AR

Mississippi River, West Memphis, AR | 2009-Mar-18

Initial Notification: On Wednesday, 18 March 2009, USCG Sector Lower Mississippi River notified the NOAA Scientific Support Coordinator of a over-turned barge containing a mixture of Zinc and Calcium Bromide (approximately 16.8% solution). The barge is sunk up-side down along the right descending bank at the Kinder Morgan facility in West Memphis, AR. Due to strong currents, dive operations are impossible. The salvage contractor plans to use 2 large A-frames and attempt a lift of the vessel. The salvor anticipates that the pressure caused by the lift chains on the cargo tank tops may (will potentially) crush the cargo tank, resulting in loss of cargo from one tank (2200 bbls). The barge is carrying 4400 bbls. The lift has suspended for further review and additional options are being assessed. NOAA was requested to provide an analysis of a worse case threat.