Several Gulf Coast ports are closed due to heavy fog. Below is a status report compiled by the West Gulf Maritime Association:
Port status:
Brownsville: Open
Corpus Christi: Closed – 8 vessels waiting inbound, 7 outbound
Point Comfort: Closed – 2 inbound, 2 outbound
Freeport: Closed – 1 outbound
Galveston/Texas City: Closed – 5 outbound, 15 inbound
Houston: Closed – 39 inbound, 36 outbound
Port Arthur/Beaumont: Closed – 1 outbound, 1 inbound
Lake Charles: Closed – 1 inbound, 1 outbound vessel
Fog is expected to lift today temporarily in some areas but is expected to settle again by nightfall. The fog is expected to lift when a cold front moves through the coastal areas tomorrow.
It is expected that crude oil vessels will be moved on a priority basis when the channels open. Houston Pilots may also opt for one-way traffic in order to facilitate ship movements.