Orange County oil spill has closed beaches indefinitely - Earth.com

Orange County oil spill has closed beaches indefinitely

Today’s Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features a satellite view of an oil spill off the coast of Southern California on October 3, 202.

More than 126,000 gallons of oil were spilled off the coast of Huntington Beach, California. An investigation by the U.S. Coast Guard has traced the oil spill to a ruptured pipeline about 5 miles offshore. 

According to media reports, crude oil and its residues have spread along the coastline. Many beaches and fisheries in the area have been closed, and crews are working to rescue and rehabilitate surviving animals.

Congresswoman Michelle Steel wrote a letter to President Biden seeking major disaster declaration for Orange County.

“It is imperative that the Federal Government assist in recovery efforts. Constituents who live along the shoreline are already reporting oil on the beach and strong odors,” Steel wrote. 

“I have serious concerns about the environmental impacts of the spill and applaud the workers who are doing their best to prevent the oil from hitting sensitive wetlands.”

Thom Mrozek, a spokesman for the U.S. Attorney’s Office, said that officials and federal investigators are investigating to determine if any criminal liability exists as it relates to the oil spill.

Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory

By Chrissy Sexton, Earth.com Staff Writer

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