Several large tanker vessels are en route to South Florida, carrying significant amounts of gasoline and diesel to help replenish fuel supplies in the region. Oil analyst Andy Lipow has reported that at least seven vessels are expected to arrive within the next 48 hours, each carrying more than 10 million gallons of fuel, primarily gasoline with some diesel.
The surge in demand for fuel in Florida was triggered by the aftermath of Hurricane Milton, leading to shortages at gas stations across the state. The incoming deliveries from Gulf Coast refineries to the Port of Tampa and Port Everglades are anticipated to alleviate the fuel supply strain.
According to Lipow, the vessels are scheduled to dock at Port Everglades and Port of Tampa, with arrival times ranging from Thursday night to Saturday morning. The US Coast Guard has confirmed that Port Everglades is fully operational and can resume normal activities, ensuring a smooth unloading process for the incoming tankers.
Fortunately, initial assessments indicate that the Port of Tampa has not sustained significant damage from the recent weather events, reassuring officials about the stability of this crucial energy infrastructure in the region.