A barge involved with offshore gold mining ran aground early Wednesday morning in Nome’s harbor.
The barge, the Eddie, is owned and operated by Phoenix Offshore Mining, Port Director Joy Baker said.
A surge of waves made the barge’s spuds break free, leaving the jackup legs of the rig unsupported, Baker said.
The barge was lifted up by the waves, then started free floating, which also caused the vessel to lose its excavator.
Phoenix President and CEO John Keeley is working with various equipment and a crew to address the situation.
Harbormaster Lucas Stotts said the port staff are in contact with the Coast Guard and the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation.
They are waiting for calmer waters before they attempt to dislodge the vessel.
It is unclear at this time how long the process will take.
