01/29/2010: Port Arthur Oil Spill Update

Update 10: COLLISION AND OIL SPILL IN PORT ARTHUR, TX SHIPPING CHANNEL

1/29/2010 Time: 0930

Situation:

The unified response to the collision and oil spill from the tankship “Eagle Otome” continues. To date, 6,590 barrels of crude oil have been recovered, evaporated or dispersed naturally of the 11,000 barrels spilled. Current response assets include 81 oil skimmers, 70 oil vacuum vehicles, 135,545 feet of containment boom and over 600 personnel remain engaged in clean-up operations.

Preparations and precautions were taken for the predicted wind shift and severe weather. At this time, Operations are suspended due to the severe weather.

Limited vessel traffic began to transit the river Wednesday morning with select transits continuing through Thursday evening. At this time, 45 vessels have transited the zone.

Action:

The Eagle Otome completed the offload of the remaining 570,000 barrels of oil from the ship's undamaged cargo tanks and was safely moved to the Sun Anchorage.

Containment boom, vacuum, and skimming operations continue within the affected area.

The rehabilitation of oiled wildlife continues. Six birds are currently being monitored, one has been released and two deceased.

Public Affairs:

Industry points of contact are urged to communicate their concerns through the daily conference call coordinated by the Sabine-Neches Port Coordination Team and Port Arthur Vessel Traffic Service (409)719-5070

The second press brief was held yesterday at the Ramada Inn. The Joint Information Center continues to receive local calls the daily amount has reduced significantly.

Photos can be viewed at http://www.flickr.com/photos/portarthuroilspill

Contact numbers for the Unified Incident Command are as follows:

Joint Information Center/Public Affairs: (713) 578-3080 or (832) 293-1293
Oiled Wildlife Hotline: (888) 709-9798

Further questions regarding this incident may be directed to Mr. Jeremy Hansen, Liaison Officer (409)284-5775, or LTJG Erin Chlum, Assistant Liaison Officer (337)912-2073.

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