Japan’s coastguard has rescued a third seafarer from a livestock carrier that sank on Wednesday.
The Filipino man was found in a raft on Friday after the 8,400-dwt Gulf Livestock 1 (built 2002) capsized after being hit by a wave and losing power in Typhoon Maysak.
The search by aircraft, vessels and divers was suspended on Saturday due to continuing bad weather. It was not known when the operation could be resumed.
A total of 40 crew members are believed dead. Most are Filipino, but a small number are Australians and New Zealanders.
The chief officer was found alive, as well as another colleague who later died.
The ship was carrying nearly 6,000 cattle from New Zealand to China.
Exports banned
New Zealand banned cattle exports as the accident was investigated.
The Gulf Livestock 1 had sent a distress call from the west of Amami Oshima island.
The vessel's technical manager, Marconsult of Germany, said that contact was lost on 2 September.
"A distress signal was received. Japanese MRCC [maritime rescue coordination centres] has deployed SAR [search and recovery] teams and we hope that the search will bring positive results soon. Relevant authorities have been informed accordingly," the company added.
"Our thoughts are with our crew and their families."
Dubai shipowner Gulf Navigation Holding said it is monitoring the situation and working closely with those involved in the rescue.
"Our hearts go out to those on board and their families at this time," the company said.
"We also express deep regret for the sad loss of the livestock on board. We pray that there are other survivors."
