A 16,000 tonne Russian cargo ship with 18 crew on board has run aground on a beach in Falmouth.
The 180-metre long carrier grounded just off the coast early this morning after dragging its anchor along the sea bed.
The Coastguard is hoping to refloat the vessel, believed to be the Kuzma Minin, once the tide rises later on Tuesday morning.
A spokesman for the Maritime and Coastguard Agency said: “HM Coastguard is currently coordinating assistance to a 180 metre bulk carrier which dragged her anchor and grounded on the western side of the port entrance between Swanpool and Gullyngvase beaches at around 0540.
“The vessel has 18 Russian crew on board. There is no cargo on board."
“She currently has a list of five degrees but there is no report of any pollution.
“Tugs are on their way to the vessel and a lifeboat is standing by at the scene.
"The Falmouth Coastguard Rescue Team have cordoned off an area around the ship.
“Tugs will be attached to the vessel and as the tide rises, the plan is to refloat the vessel.”
The Met Office has issued a yellow warning of severe weather for the areas with 65mph winds forecast.
Gyllyngvase Beach is one of Cornwall's most popular, and holds a Blue Flag.
Locals were shocked at how close the massive ship was to the beach.
Rachel Stevenson said: "Wowzers. Was looking at this tanker just yesterday - you could see it anchored from my house near Maenporth.
"You see tankers like this all the time around Falmouth - but never right on the beach!"
Fern Berry added: "Horrendous weather for recovery as well."
Surfers Against Sewage said they were also at the scene monitoring pollution.
Dorset and Cornwall Police have asked the public not to head to the beach to take photos while the rescue operation is underway.
