These reports describe significant environmental incidents reported to and tracked by the National Response Center. They reflect both new incidents and follow-up information describing actions taken for previously reported events. The NRC publishes Incident Summary Reports periodically upon receipt of documentary information from the Federal On-Scene Coordinator.
| Occurence Date: | 9 August |
|---|---|
| Location: | Mount Vernon, IN |
| Source: | T/B WTC 456 |
| Material: | Gasoline |
| Severity: | Major |
| Quantity Discharged: | 1000 - 2000 Barrells |
| Quantity in Water: | 1000 - 2000 Barrells |
| Body of Water Affected: | Ohio River |
| Federal On-Scene Coordinator: | MSO Louisville |
At 8:45 a.m. local time the Waxler Towing Company Barge WTC 456 suffered a steering casualty causing it to collide with Barge AO331 at mile marker 828 of the Ohio River. The river has been closed between mile markers 827 and 830. Barge AO331 had a cargo of cumene. There is no material reported leaking from Barge AO331. Barge WTC 456 contained 79,000 gallons of gasoline. The Responsible Party estimates that 42,000 gallons of gasoline has been released. The evaporated gasoline has produced a measurement of 3 percent benzene in the air. As of 5:30 p.m. on August 9th, air quality tests were being conducted to determine if it was safe to do soundings on the barge''s cargo tank and further assess the situation. Several private contractors are on scene. The Gulf Strike Team is en route. CASE PENDS.