How dangerous are dust storms for ships in the Suez canal?

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In summary, the conversation discusses a video showing a large dust storm enveloping a ship in the Suez canal, causing concern for the person running the ship. The conversation also mentions a similar experience on a smaller ship during a storm, where the ship used its horn, slowed down, and relied on radar until the storm passed.
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BillTre
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Here is a video of a big dust storm enveloping a ship in the Suez canal.


That's a concerning position to be in for someone running the ship. Can't even see the front end. Large ships are very slow at turning or slowing down.

I have been on a small ship (~250 foot) on a Florida river when a squall (short term storm) similarly reduced our vision. They blew the ship's horn, slowed down (river had curves), and used radar till the storm passed.
 
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WOW crazy

sorry for late response, I only just saw your post .... I'm running late as usual
 
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1. What are the primary dangers of dust storms to ships in the Suez Canal?

Dust storms can significantly reduce visibility, making navigation difficult and increasing the risk of collisions between ships or with the canal banks. These storms can also affect the electronic and mechanical systems of ships, leading to potential malfunctions.

2. How often do dust storms occur in the Suez Canal area, and what times of year are they most common?

Dust storms in the Suez Canal region are relatively common during the spring, particularly in March and April. These storms, often associated with the seasonal Khamsin wind, can occur suddenly and last for varying durations, sometimes up to several days.

3. What measures do ships take to navigate safely during a dust storm in the Suez Canal?

Ships often rely on enhanced navigational aids such as GPS and radar to navigate during dust storms. Additionally, pilots with local expertise are usually onboard to assist with navigation. Speed reductions and increased communication with other vessels and traffic control are also common practices to ensure safety.

4. Has a dust storm ever caused a significant incident in the Suez Canal?

Yes, dust storms have been a contributing factor in several incidents in the Suez Canal, including collisions and groundings. One notable incident occurred in March 2021 when the Ever Given, a large container ship, ran aground and blocked the canal, partly due to poor visibility conditions caused by a dust storm.

5. What are the long-term impacts of frequent dust storms on the operations of the Suez Canal?

Frequent dust storms can lead to disruptions in canal traffic, which can delay shipping schedules and increase operational costs. These conditions might also necessitate more frequent maintenance and dredging of the canal to ensure safe navigation, thereby increasing operational expenses for the Suez Canal Authority.

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