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Storm Herminia disrupts ferry services between Tarifa and Tangier

Wednesday 29 January 2025 - 13:00

Storm Herminia has caused significant disruptions to ferry services in the Strait of Gibraltar, particularly impacting routes between Tarifa and Tangier. The adverse weather conditions led to numerous cancellations and delays, as reported by Spanish media outlet El EstrecthoDigital.

On Monday, ferry operators were forced to cancel multiple trips, and the situation remained critical into Tuesday. At the port of Algeciras, a ferry scheduled for Tangier Med experienced delays, while FRS Iberia S.L. announced the cancellation of another planned crossing. Additionally, Africa Morocco Link reported three canceled services on Monday, with two more trips by FRS Iberia S.L. pending clearance.

In contrast, the Algeciras-Ceuta line operated without interruptions, and other routes to Tangier Med continued to function normally. However, maritime conditions in the region remained challenging, with rough seas affecting both the Mediterranean and Atlantic.

To compound the situation, Morocco’s Ministry of Equipment and Water issued a warning about dangerous waves anticipated along the coast from Thursday morning. Wave heights may reach up to 6.5 meters, with particularly severe conditions expected between Mehdia and Safi during the morning and afternoon hours.

Forecasts also indicate high tides ranging from 2.90 to 3.90 meters, occurring early in the morning between 3:30 and 4:00 a.m. local time, and again in the afternoon from 3:50 to 4:30 p.m. These tidal events are likely to coincide with strong gusts, potentially exceeding average wind speeds by 40%, as estimated on the Beaufort scale.

Authorities are urging those in maritime areas to exercise caution as the stormy weather continues to pose risks for sea travel.

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