An OOCL container ship, the "OOCL SUNFLOWER," with a capacity of 16,828 TEU encountered severe weather while en route to the Port of Long Beach in the United States, resulting in approximately 57 containers being swept overboard by giant waves. Additionally, some deck containers were damaged or shifted.

The incident occurred on March 3, with the U.S. Coast Guard issuing a preliminary report stating that the vessel faced extreme weather and large waves, causing the containers to fall into the sea. According to the maritime information platform MarineTraffic, the weather conditions were severe at the time of the incident, with the ship experiencing violent pitching in strong winds and high waves. Besides the containers going overboard, some were damaged or shifted. The crew is currently unable to fully assess the extent of cargo and vessel damage.

The ship is expected to arrive at the Port of Long Beach in the United States on March 12 for a detailed inspection and accident assessment. Preliminary information indicates that there is no damage below the waterline of the vessel, and there have been no reports of cargo or hazardous material leaks.

The "OOCL SUNFLOWER" is a new large container ship built in 2025, measuring approximately 366 meters in length, 51 meters in width, with a maximum carrying capacity of 16,828 TEU.

The vessel operates on the PVCS route for the Ocean Alliance, serving the Asia to U.S. West Coast route with voyages 008E/008W, involving joint operations with multiple shipping companies. Prior to the incident, it had loaded export cargo at several ports. The U.S. Coast Guard's Los Angeles/Long Beach sector has initiated response preparations. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's scientific support team has been involved to assess potential marine environmental impacts.

The North Pacific route often faces strong storms and giant wave conditions, and container loss incidents are not uncommon. However, with the increase in vessel size and loading density, such accidents involving larger cargo volumes can have a wider impact. The specific extent of the damage is still being evaluated, and all parties are awaiting the final inspection results.