Chinese rocket debris may fall near Ilocos Norte, Cagayan waters — Coast Guard

Debris from the launch of China’s Long March 7A rocket on Wednesday may drop near the waters of Ilocos Norte and Cagayan, the Coast Guard District North Eastern Luzon (CGDNELZN) said Monday.

In an advisory, the Coast Guard issued temporary maritime restrictions, warning fishermen and small vessels to avoid designated drop zones off Northern Luzon.

Possible rocket debris may fall within two identified drop zones:

• Drop Zone 1 - 41 nautical miles from Burgos, Ilocos Norte and 62 nautical miles from Dalupiri Island, Cagayan.
• Drop Zone 2 - 69 nautical miles from Burgos and 81 nautical miles from Dalupiri Island.

China is set to launch the Long March 7A rocket from Wenchang, Hainan, between 12:08 a.m. and 1:12 a.m. Wednesday (Manila time), according to the Coast Guard.

CGDNELZN urged fishermen and operators of small watercraft to temporarily avoid the affected areas during the launch window.

Authorities also warned the public not to approach or retrieve any debris that may be found floating at sea or washed ashore.

“Do not approach or attempt to retrieve any debris; report floating objects or suspicious findings to Coast Guard personnel or local authorities immediately,” the advisory read.

The Coast Guard added that sightings of possible rocket debris should be immediately reported to authorities to ensure public safety and proper handling of any hazardous materials. —VBL, GMA News