California Oil Spillages Set Concerns For Wildlife
October 11, 2021
During a Saturday afternoon in California, sightings of a large oil spillage were reported along the coast of Huntington Beach. Described as an “environmental disaster”, the incident is causing major worries for local ecologists, who are rushing to preserve any wildlife leftover from the spillage.
Now, fumes from the oil infested water are finding their way into the atmosphere, creating a fatal hazard for birds in the area. Shortly after the incident, dozens of birds as well as fish washed up on the shores, due to the perilous environment. Furthermore, it is undoubtedly likely that other species residing in the water will be caught up in the mix as well, such as dolphins and sea turtles.
What caused the spillage?
Unfortunately, local officials are still unsure of how exactly the spillage was caused. However, there is speculation that a boat’s anchor is a likely culprit in the situation, along with an underwater pipeline. Due to this incident, pipelines in the ocean that are exposed or vulnerable to passing ships will likely be ensured further protection, in order to prevent a situation like this from occurring ever again.
What is being done?
Although the oil has been given an extra head start to spread in the water, due to extended response time, crews led by the coast guards have been extracting oil from the water nonstop to prevent further damage. In addition, ecologists around the area have been making great efforts to preserve any wildlife at risk—barricading birds from the water, while cleaning crews skim the water. Overall, progress is being made but the damage already caused is irreversible.
Sources:
https://www.foxla.com/news/oil-spill-california-huntington-beach-kills-wildlife-closes-shoreline
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/oct/04/california-oil-spill-huntington-beach
https://www.cnn.com/2021/10/04/us/california-oil-spill-what-we-know/index.html