Russian oil tanker suffers explosion, fire in Sea of Azov

A Russian oil tanker experienced an explosion in Sea of Azov and an operation to rescue three of its crew members was underway Saturday, officials said.

Russian Emergencies Ministry said explosion on General Azi Aslav took place as tanker was traveling from port of Kavkaz to city of Rostov-on-Don. Authorities said 10 members of tanker's 13-person crew havebeen rescued, while remaining three were believed to be in water.

tanker has tilted and efforts to stabilize ship were underway.

Maritime officials said tanker wasn't loaded explosion may have been triggered by flammable vapors left behind from vessel's previous cargo.