Weather Disruptions Impact Logistics at the Port of Algeciras

Port of Algeciras Gradually Resumes Operations Following Severe Weather Disruptions

The Port of Algeciras has begun a gradual recovery of operations after several days of disruption caused by storms Joseph and Kristin, which forced the suspension of maritime activities and created significant logistical congestion at one of the main trade gateways between Europe and North Africa.

Partial reopening allowed transport operators heading to Tanger Med and container terminals to resume access; however, operational normalization remains challenging due to the accumulation of heavy vehicles and saturated waiting areas. At the peak of the disruption, approximately 2,800 trucks were concentrated within port facilities and surrounding access routes, highlighting the vulnerability of international supply chains to extreme weather conditions.

To accelerate recovery, terminals implemented extraordinary opening schedules, while ferry services connecting Algeciras with Ceuta, Tanger Med, and Tangier City have progressively resumed operations — routes considered critical for commercial flows across the Strait of Gibraltar.

In response to the situation, the Port Authority of the Bay of Algeciras (APBA), together with customs authorities and security agencies, held an emergency coordination meeting to manage the operational crisis. The primary objective has been to ensure safety, reorganize transport flows, and enable a structured and efficient restart of port activities.

This event underscores the importance of logistics resilience and institutional coordination in minimizing economic impact and maintaining continuity in international trade, particularly along strategic corridors linking Europe with Africa and Mediterranean markets.