Fuel Leak From Sunken Ship Might Have Been Cause Because Of Alaskan Earthquake
The 8.2 magnitude Alaskan quake that occurred on July 28 is cited as the probable cause of a diesel fuel leak of a sunken ship. The Saint Patrick vessel that sank off miles from the Kodiak Island in Women’s Bay in 1989 started leaking fuel recently.
Reports came pouring about an oil sheen that appeared within a week of one of the largest earthquakes in the US. The 138-foot vessel was earlier hit by a tremendous wave near Marmot Island. It was subsequently towed to Women’s Bay, where it sank. Two crew members of 12 survived.
Jade Gamble, the spill coordinator, stated, ‘Officials could reduce the spill. Our primary goal is to make sure that no catastrophic release occurs from the vessel.’ Officials from the Alaska Earthquake Center stated that it is not confirmed that the Alaskan quake is the exact reason for the leak.’ It is because the quake’s epicentre lies around 260 miles towards the southwest of Women’s Bay. Despite the high magnitude, the quake didn’t trigger any tsunami or cause any severe damage.
Seismologist Natalia Ruppert stated, ‘Kodiak didn’t witness anything noteworthy and the shipwreck was located farther from the epicenter. Of late, there haven’t been any such major earthquakes near Women’s Bay that would shake the ground.’ She added, ‘The leak may be a cumulative effect of several earthquakes that hit it, though it is hard to pinpoint.’
Ever since the sheen appeared and there was a confirmation on the fuel leak, the Oil Spill Liability Trust Fund is active and working as Saint Patrick doesn’t have any owner.
Reference: abcnews.go.com
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Marine Insight News Network is a premier source for up-to-date, comprehensive, and insightful coverage of the maritime industry. Dedicated to offering the latest news, trends, and analyses in shipping, marine technology, regulations, and global maritime affairs, Marine Insight News Network prides itself on delivering accurate, engaging, and relevant information.
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