The contemporary investigations Criminal_investigation in both the United Kingdom and the United States into the precise causes Causation of the ship 's loss were obstructed Hindering by the needs of wartime secrecy and a propaganda campaign to ensure all blame fell upon Germany .

Debris obstructed Hindering roads across northern Queensland and power outages disrupted Damaging electrical service Supply , even at water treatment plants , forcing officials to warn Warning residents to boil water as a precautionary measure .