Tropical Cyclone Gonu Threatens Persian Gulf
Now classified as a Category 5 cyclone, Tropical Cyclone Gonu may be behind recent price increases in the crude oil market. Although the storm is expect to weaken somewhat before landfall in Oman, it remains uncertain what kind of effect this storm may have on world market supply. Currently, the path of the cyclone is headed for the Strait of Hormuz, a major thoroughfare for tankers making fuel deliveries worldwide. Tankers in the area are currently attempting to navigate to safe areas, causing shipping disruptions. Cyclones are extremely rare in the Persian Gulf, which is creating concerns that neither facilities nor personnel are prepared for the challenges that may be encountered. Current threats include high winds and possible flooding and/or storm surges. According to Jim Andrews at Accuweather, “I can say with confidence that this forecaster has never seen the likes of this . . . I cannot rule out extreme, unusual weather in UAE, Qatar and Saudi Arabia to at least Al Ahsa and the southern/middle Najd (Riyadh).” Damage to offshore drilling rigs and loading platforms may cause serious problems for a market already characterized by tight market conditions. Updates on this rapidly developing weather phenomenon coming soon.Published Monday, June 4th, 2007 at 2:27 pm and filed under Industry News.