An idled handysize bulker has drifted stern-first into a bridge in Rio de Janeiro.
The G1 website said the Rio-Niteroi Bridge was closed on Monday night after the incident involving the 43,000-dwt Sao Luiz (built 1994).
The Brazil-flag ship has been anchored in Guanabara Bay since 2016.
Its former technical manager, Posidonia Shipping, told TradeWinds the vessel was redelivered to the owner, Navegacao Mansur, in 2016.
“According to the local pilots, the anchor chain collapsed when heavy winds started to blow over Rio de Janeiro,” the company added.
A passing driver filmed the moment the vessel hit the bridge, preceded by swearing.
The car passes by the accommodation block just as it audibly crashes into the bridge, jolting the camera.
Other footage shot from beneath the bridge shows tugs attending the vessel, which is alongside the span.
No injuries were reported.
The damage to the ship or the bridge is not clear. The country’s navy is investigating the accident.
Bridge shaken by bulker's impact
One witness said: “A very strong wind started on the bridge. That’s when I saw the ship and I thought it was going to go straight.
“At the time, my phone fell to the ground. It even shook the bridge. It shook a lot. The car almost left one lane and went to the other.”
