Breaking: 26 Barges Break Loose Heading Down the Ohio River and Are Shutting Down Multiple Bridges – Critical Damage to the Emsworth Dams (Video)

A marina in Pittsburgh sustained extensive damage after 26 barges, most of which were loaded with dry cargo, broke loose late Friday night and floated uncontrolled down the Ohio River, according to authorities.

Two Pittsburgh-area bridges about 2.5 miles apart were closed after the barges broke free.

Currently, numerous law enforcement agencies, along with other authorities, are on high alert as approximately twenty-six barges have broken loose and are headed down the Ohio River.

Out of an abundance of caution, law enforcement has shut down multiple bridges, including the McKees Rocks Bridge in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and halted all traffic due to this incident.

So far, twenty-three barges were loaded and three were empty, with six barges having jammed up against the Emsworth Dam Reports of Extensive Damage has been reported at Peggys Marina. Authorities are asking everyone in the area to please avoid this area until further notice.

Video below:

🚨#BREAKING: Law enforcement are on high alert as over two dozen barges break loose heading down the Ohio River and shutting down multiple bridges

📌#Pittsburgh | #PA

Currently, numerous law enforcement agencies, along with other authorities, are on high alert as approximately… pic.twitter.com/QzxiMdch4L

— R A W S A L E R T S (@rawsalerts) April 13, 2024

Photos show some barges are already jammed up against the Emsworth Dam:

Video below:

🚨#UPDATE: Footage shows approximately 6-7 barges jammed up against the Emsworth Dam, with more expected on the way. Multiple bridges have been shut down, causing traffic disruptions. Additionally, more barges are on the loose after breaking free crews are watching the situation… pic.twitter.com/k2aBOcfUYi

— R A W S A L E R T S (@rawsalerts) April 13, 2024

The official explanation on why the barges got out of contro is likely due to the high river water rising from the recent flooding they’ve been experiencing.

Here are the details about the dam:

“The Emsworth Dams are presently in an exigent situation. Four significant project features – the scour protection, vertical lift gates, gate operating machinery & emergency bulkheads – were identified to have a high risk of failure.”