Multiple container ships thrust out to sea from Port of Brisbane in storm

Three container ships were thrust into open water after 70-knot winds broke their moorings at the Port of Brisbane.

Multiple container ships broke free from the Port of Brisbane during Monday's wild weather event. Picture: 7News

Multiple container ships were thrust out to sea after breaking loose from a major Brisbane port during Monday’s severe storm.

Cyclonic winds forced four large ships, including three container ships and one vehicle carrier, to snap their lines and break free from the Port of Brisbane on Monday.

The two stacked container ships, the Barbara and Wide India, drifted out into Moreton Bay and east of Mud Island, more than five kilometres away from the wharf.

The Port of Brisbane experienced 70 knot winds during Monday’s ferocious storm.

The Barbara was blown across the Brisbane River and became stuck in the muddy bank during low tide, requiring multiple tug boats to free the enormous vessel.

The Barbara became stranded along the riverbank at low tide. Picture: 7News

Specialist divers were later sent out to assess damage to its hull.

Maritime Safety Queensland said no one was injured and there was no pollution threat to the surrounding ocean.

“Four vessels breaking away at once is highly unusual,” Maritime Safety Queensland general manager Kell Dillon told 7News.

Multiple containers were toppled in the storm at the Port of Brisbane. Picture: 7News

“The whole incident was over in just over two and a half hours, so full credit to a lot of hard working and specialist people.”

All ships were safely anchored at the port on Tuesday and The Australian Transport Safety Bureau are investigating the breakaways.

Originally published as Multiple container ships thrust out to sea from Port of Brisbane in storm