“Once is an accident. Twice is a coincidence. But 26 at once? That’s the Feds.” – Anonymous Commentator
Late Friday night in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, chaos ensued as 26 barges, most laden with dry cargo, were set adrift on the Ohio River. The incident caused substantial damage to a local marina and has put the structural integrity of the Emsworth Dams under threat. Authorities have confirmed that the barges floated uncontrollably downstream, leading to the precautionary closure of two critical bridges approximately 2.5 miles apart.
In response to the unfolding crisis, several law enforcement agencies have escalated their alert status and are coordinating efforts to manage the situation. Major transport routes, including the McKees Rocks Bridge, have been shut down to all traffic, severely impacting local commute and safety. Of the loose barges, twenty-three were carrying cargo, while three were empty. Notably, six of these barges have now become lodged against the Emsworth Dam, causing significant damage.
Local authorities have issued an urgent advisory for people to avoid the area around Peggys Marina, where extensive damage has been reported. The public is asked to stay clear of the affected zones to facilitate emergency operations and mitigate any further risk to safety.
The initial cause of the barges breaking free is believed to be related to recent flooding, which has significantly raised river water levels. Officials are now scrutinizing the Emsworth Dams, which were already identified as having several high-risk vulnerabilities, including issues with scour protection, vertical lift gates, gate operating machinery, and emergency bulkheads.
Residents and travelers in the area are advised to stay informed through official channels as the situation develops.
