Exclusive: Navy Reveals Shocking Underwater Footage of Baltimore Bridge Collapse!
The U.S. Navy’s 3D sonar images provide the first view yet of the Francis Scott Key Bridge resting on the muddy bottom of the Patapsco River. “What we’re seeing in the water is the wreckage has been completely collapsed. Some people use the term ‘pancaked’,” reports Senior Correspondent Tom Costello. The 3D imagery provides the best details of the razor-sharp metal the dive teams will face as they start cutting the bridge into smaller pieces to be lifted out of the water. The water itself is so cloudy and dark that divers can only see a foot or two in front of them. Shining an underwater light only reflects back like a snowstorm, making photos or video nearly impossible. “That’s making it very difficult to even determine where to cut, how to cut. It’s very dangerous for our divers to be able to go into this area,” adds Costello.
Above water, salvage teams have been using torches to cut and remove massive chunks of the bridge, some weighing 200 tons. As the Coast Guard has now opened two small channels, mostly for tugs and barges involved in salvage operations, the massive scale of the cleanup is coming into clear focus. Two SBA disaster offices are now open for local businesses threatened by the disaster, as the governor presses corporate America not to give up on this region’s critical economic artery. “And so making sure these businesses know that we need them. We want them. And they have to stay here in the Port of Baltimore,” emphasizes the governor.
Four workers remain missing in the water, and inclement weather and challenging underwater conditions have complicated search and rescue efforts. Despite these challenges, authorities remain committed to locating the missing workers and ensuring the safety of all involved in the salvage operation.
Local residents have expressed concerns about the environmental impact of the bridge collapse, particularly regarding potential pollution in the river. Environmental agencies are closely monitoring the situation to assess any environmental risks and take necessary actions to mitigate them.
Meanwhile, the Baltimore community has rallied together to support those affected by the disaster. Relief efforts, including donation drives and volunteer initiatives, have been organized to provide assistance to displaced families and affected businesses.
As investigations into the cause of the bridge collapse continue, there are growing calls for increased infrastructure maintenance and safety measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. The incident has sparked discussions about the importance of investing in infrastructure resilience and ensuring the safety of critical transportation routes.
In the midst of tragedy, stories of heroism and resilience have emerged. Emergency responders, volunteers, and community members have shown remarkable bravery and solidarity in the face of adversity, demonstrating the strength and resilience of the Baltimore community.
As the cleanup and recovery efforts continue, there is hope for healing and rebuilding. The Baltimore bridge collapse may have caused significant devastation, but it has also highlighted the resilience and unity of the community in times of crisis.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as authorities work tirelessly to address the aftermath of the Baltimore bridge collapse and support those affected by this tragic event.