|
Occurrence Date: |
7 November, 2001 |
|
Location: |
Louisville, KY |
|
Source: |
Tug Sherman Walker |
|
Material: |
Gasoline |
|
Severity: |
Potential Major |
|
Quantity Discharged: |
Unknown |
|
Quantity in Water: |
Unknown |
|
Body of Water Affected: |
Ohio River |
|
Federal On-Scene Coordinator: |
EPA IV |
| Description: On November 7, 2001 the tug Sherman A Walker was pushing ahead 5 barges loaded with gasoline when it struck a concrete mooring structure. The allision occurred when the tow attempted a starboard turn into a canal at mile-marker 604 on the Ohio River as it exited the lock and dam. The stern-most barge on the starboard side was damaged and released an unknown quantity of gasoline. The barge is comprised of 10 compartments. Three compartments are believed to be damaged, creating a potential discharge of 315,000 gallons of gasoline. MSO Louisville and the local Fire Department responded. The lock and dam has been closed upriver to prevent any current in the canal to assist containment of the spilled gasoline in the canal. Some roads in downtown Louisville have been closed due to the gasoline fumes. The EPA, MSO Louisville, and Fire Department are on scene to monitor the spill and conduct investigations. The Fire Department is monitoring air quality. The Coast Guard Atlantic Strike Team is in standby to respond. |
|