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.
| NRC Case #: | 008-97 |
|---|---|
| INSUM #: | One |
| Occurance Date: | 17 March 1997 |
| Location: | Baton Rouge, LA |
| Source: | T/B IB 960 |
| Material: | Pyrolysis Gas |
| Severity: | Potential Major |
| Quantity Discharged: | Unknown |
| Quantity in Water: | Unknown |
| Body of Water Affected: | Mississippie River: Mile Marker 233 |
| Federal On-Scene Coordinator: | Marine Safety Office New Orleans, LA |
SITUATION: On Monday, March 17, 1997, at approximately 1625 hours local time, the M/V F.R. Bigalow with a tow of 25 barges allied with the Highway 190 Bridge near Baton Rouge, LA. All 25 barges broke free from the tow and all but 2 have been recovered intact. One barge loaded with a cargo of rock is believed to have sunk mid channel in 100 feet of water. The 195 foot double hull T/B IB 960 loaded with 10,000 barrels of pyrolysis gasoline overturned and remains in the inverted position. The barge has been grounded and is being held in place by an assist tug 800 feet below the bridge. Booms have not been deployed due to the high current (7kts) and volatile properties of cargo. High benzene levels (15ppm) have been detected in the area, causing the evacuation of 17 homes and 90 prisoners from a detention center. The Mississippi River remains closed from mile 233 to mile 235.5. The Highway 90 bridge has been reopened to vehicle and rail traffic. USCG and local officials plan to continue air monitoring and will assess clean-up operations this morning. CASE PENDS.