SITREP TWO and FINAL
21 January, 2000
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.
| Occurrence Date: | 21 January |
|---|---|
| Location: | Gulf of Mexico |
| Source: | Equilon Pipeline |
| Material: | Crude Oil |
| Severity: | Medium |
| Quantity Discharged: | 94,080 Gallons |
| Quantity in Water: | 94,080 Gallons |
| Body of Water Affected: | Gulf of Mexico |
| Federal On-Scene Coordinator: | MSO Morgan City |
On January 21, Equilon Pipeline reported that the Semisubmersible Transocean 96 had a winch failure on the anchoring system causing the anchor to release while underway. The anchor ruptured a 24 inch pipeline, releasing approximately 94,080 gallons of crude oil into the Gulf of Mexico. Overflights were conducted and a sheen measuring 1.5 miles long and 35 yards wide was found in the vicinity of the platform. A pipeline break was discovered in 120 feet of water. A pipeline repair/recovery plan is being developed. Dispersant operations were placed on standby. Aerial observations will be conducted during daylight hours to monitor sheen movement. CASE CLOSED.