Oil spill in Huntington Beach California sparks concern for wildlife

Monday, October 4, 2021

An oil slick off the coast of California has started washing ashore, killing fish, contaminating wetlands and closing beaches.

About 3,000 barrels of oil have spread over an area covering 13 square miles (33 sq km) off the Orange County coast. Huntington Beach Mayor Kim Carr said portions of the coastline were covered in oil.

An investigation into the pipeline breach that caused it is underway.

The slick, about five miles off the coasts of Huntington Beach and Newport Beach, was discovered on Saturday morning.

It’s thought to be one of the largest oil spills in the state’s recent history, according to a press.

Authorities are now attempting to contain the oil by using protective booms. Divers are also working at the scene to determine how the leak occurred.

The area 40 miles south of Los Angeles, is extremely popular with surfers. Health officials warned people not to swim, surf or exercise by the beach because of the potential health hazards.

Michelle Steel, a Republican representative for part of the affected area, has asked President Joe Biden to declare a major disaster, which would allow for funds to help with clean-up operations.




Sunday, as officials closed the area to the public and said beaches in the city could be shut down for several weeks or even months.
People were also urged not to fish in the area since the waters are considered toxic.

In 2010, the Deep Water Horizon incident off the Gulf of Mexico saw nearly 300,000 tonnes of oil spill, resulting in the death of thousands of species ranging from plankton to dolphins.

There were also other longer-term impacts on marine life including impaired reproduction, reduced growth, lesions and disease. The incident has grossly affected tourism which centred around Huntington Beach.

The spill also caused Huntington Beach to cancel the final day of the Pacific Airshow, which drew hundreds of thousands of people to the shore on Saturday.

Currently, residents are asked to refrain from participating in recreational activities on the coastline such as swimming, surfing, biking, walking, exercising, gathering and other activities.

« Back to Page

• Loveholidays debuts thousands of holiday experiences powered by TUI Musement

• High air fares drops Phu Quoc tourism during Reunification Day and May Day holiday

• New UK travel advice can boost Sri Lanka tourism

• Spring break at Four Seasons: Luxury, culture, and family fun