The H&S Wisdom, chartered by ArcelorMittal, ran aground on March 2 at the mouth of the river en route from Rotterdam to the port of Gunness Wharf, near Scunthorpe. Attempts to free him have so far been unsuccessful.
Sources in the shipping industry report that the ship may remain there throughout March until the next high tide provides a better opportunity for its release, unless cargo is removed from the ship before that time.
It is reported that the vessel can carry 1,600 tons of steel, and its cargo capacity is about 1,700 tons. British steel suppliers are now requesting information from the steel manufacturer to confirm whether the situation will affect their supplies.
It is not known whether the ship is carrying long or flat products, although one source indicates that there may be beams among the cargo.
The steel company is believed to be considering logistics options, including transshipment to remove cargo from the stranded vessel, in order to reduce delays for customers.
Market sources expect the steel to be shipped within the next week.
