Groceries run low in Alaska after cargo ship problem

Alaska grocery stores are running low on some foods after a cargo ship was delayed by a mechanical issue.

A Tote Maritime Alaska ship named “The North Star” regularly runs between Tacoma and Anchorage, bringing groceries and other goods to the state. It was supposed to leave Tacoma on Jan. 14 and arrive Jan. 17, but a problem was discovered before its departure.

Tote Maritime Vice President Grace Greene couldn’t say specifically what the mechanical issue was. She says the ship is expected to be fixed by early next week.

Greene says groceries were moved to the company’s other ship, the Midnight Sun. They are expected to arrive soon.

Roughly 85 percent of all goods that arrive in Alaska come through the port of Anchorage, which receives four major cargo shipments a week.

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