CMA CGM is taking no chances as powerful storms sweep across the northeast Atlantic. On Thursday, the French shipping and logistics giant confirmed it has moved several of its vessels into secure holding positions in response to an unusually intense weather system affecting the region. The decision impacts a vast stretch of coastline, from southern Morocco all the way to the entrance of the English Channel.
In an official statement, CMA CGM described the situation as both extreme and prolonged, with severe weather battering coastal areas in Morocco, Spain, and France, particularly in the storm-prone Bay of Biscay. The company referred to the event as “exceptional” due to its scale and persistence, emphasizing the serious disruption it’s causing to commercial maritime traffic.
As a precautionary measure, the group has temporarily redirected some of its vessels to safer zones in order to protect both crews and cargo. Designated waiting areas have been set up in key maritime zones, including the Bay of Seine and the Strait of Gibraltar, allowing ships to remain on standby until conditions stabilize.
The announcement comes amid broader turmoil in the shipping industry, as other major players, such as Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd, report similar disruptions. Winter storms and heavy snowfall across Europe have further strained supply chains, compounding delays and logistical challenges.
These severe conditions are expected to trigger slowdowns in cargo movement between Europe, Morocco, and West Africa, along routes that are vital for regional trade. Importers and exporters relying on these commercial lifelines may face delays, as carriers work to navigate the ongoing weather crisis while minimizing risks at sea.
