Fire Blazes on Cargo Ship Containers off British Columbia

A huge fire broke out on Saturday on containers on a cargo ship carrying mining chemicals off British Columbia.

The Canadian Coast Guard affirmed that it is working with the U.S. Coast Guard to assess the situation, including environmental hazards.

In this regard, sixteen crew members have been evacuated from the MV Zim Kingston, while five remained on board in order to control the fire, according to the Canadian Coast Guard's statement.

It revealed that ten containers were currently burning, adding that the blaze continued to spread but the ship itself was not on fire.

In the same vein, the agency said it was working with its U.S. counterpart to track 40 containers that had fallen overboard, noting that they pose a significant risk to mariners.

"Mariners are advised to stay clear of the area. Currently, there is no safety risk to people on shore; however, the situation will continue to be monitored," it said.

The Zim Kingston reported on Friday that it had encountered rough weather west of the Strait of Juan de Fuca.

"This is extremely concerning. The ship and containers are very close to Victoria, BC, and a big storm is forecast to hit tonight. We... are worried this may be yet another environmental disaster," said David Boudinot, president of Surfrider Foundation Canada, an environmental organization.