Weather Clearing Near Search Zone of Missing Submersible as Time Runs Out

Posted: June 21, 2023 2:31 pm

Several countries and agencies are working together to find the missing submersible that was last heard from on Sunday. The U.S. Coast Guard is leading up the search, giving regular updates about the situation.

The dive was headed down to the depths of the Atlantic on an expedition to view the remains of the sunken Titanic. Experts warn that the individuals on board may run out of oxygen by Friday if they are not found.

The Coast Guard confirmed on Tuesday that it was using sonar devices to look for the vessel. There was a glimmer of hope after reports that the sonar had detected unidentified banging noises that were coming at regular intervals every 30 minutes, suggesting that the crew inside was intentionally signaling rescuers.

Despite a search that has covered over 10,000 square miles, there have been no signs of the submersible as of mid-day Wednesday. The wreckage of the Titanic sits over 2 miles below the surface of the water and is only accessible by remotely-operated vessels.

Complicating the issue is the fact that crews are not certain how they would bring the submersible up to the surface of the ocean should it be found.

How is Weather Impacting the Search?

The search for the missing vessel got off to a slow start on Monday thanks to widespread fog in the region. This fog hindered the ability of crews to get a good look at the area. Tuesday provided clearer conditions as more agencies joined in on the search.

The weather in the area on Wednesday has been distinguished by low clouds and fog. Strong winds and choppy waves have also been elements of the storm system hanging around this part of the Atlantic. Winds are coming in at 20 to 30 mph with wave heights reaching 5 to 8 feet. The air temperature is hovering around the 50-degree mark.

Forecasters are now offering hope that the weather will start to cooperate more after the storm system leaves the area later Wednesday. A mass of high pressure anchored to the south of the Titanic site will deliver much better conditions for search and rescue crews on Thursday and Friday. Mostly sunny skies will make it easier for flight crews to look for signs of the submersible.

This forecast includes low wave heights coming in at 3 to 6 feet and winds at 10 to 15 mph. While these waves may seem high, these measurements are actually lower than normal for the northern Atlantic Ocean. This part of the basin frequently sees rough storms this time of the year.

Looking ahead to Saturday, more clouds are expected to move into the area with the chance of scattered rain showers increasing. Wave heights are forecast to land at about 3 to 6 feet with winds coming in at 10 to 20 mph.

The Coast Guard has not indicated how long they will continue with the search and rescue operation. Capt. Jamie Frederick said in a press briefing in Boston on Wednesday that they are still optimistic about how the search is going.

Frederick said that the Coast Guard is using all of its assets and resources to find the vessel and its five passengers. He is also indicated that any decision to stop the search will be made in consultation with the families of the passengers.

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