A luxury yacht named Bayesian sank off the coast of Sicily, tragically resulting in the deaths of tech entrepreneur Mike Lynch and six others. An initial report revealed that the owner and crew were not aware that wind speeds over 73 mph could cause the yacht to capsize.
After the yacht sank on August 19, investigators found that strong winds, reaching 80 mph, hit the vessel suddenly. This caused it to take on water and sink in just seconds. Seven out of the 22 people on board died, including Lynch and his daughter, Hannah.
The yacht was sailing to avoid bad weather and had its sails down when it capsized. Just before the incident, the wind speed increased dramatically from 9 mph to 80 mph within an hour. Crew members were trying to secure the yacht when it tipped over sharply. Eyewitness reports mention various injuries among the crew and guests as they struggled to stay aboard.
Dr. Simon Boxall, an oceanographer, commented that the yacht was in the wrong place at the wrong time. Survivors escaped using a life raft and were rescued by another nearby yacht. The UK’s Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) is looking into the incident. Recovery efforts to raise the 56-meter yacht from the sea have paused due to safety concerns after a diver died during the operation.
Investigators aim to provide more information as they continue their work.
Vocabulary List:
- Capsize /ˈkæp.saɪz/ (verb): To overturn or become unsteady on water.
- Investigator /ɪnˈvɛs.tɪˌɡeɪ.tər/ (noun): A person who examines and considers information to uncover facts.
- Recovery /rɪˈkʌv.ər.i/ (noun): The process of regaining possession or control of something.
- Accident /ˈæk.sɪ.dənt/ (noun): An unexpected event that results in damage or injury.
- Tragically /ˈtrædʒ.ɪ.kli/ (adverb): In a way that is extremely sad or unfortunate.
- Vessel /ˈvɛs.əl/ (noun): A ship or large boat used for traveling over water.
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