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On April 20, 2010, an explosion occurred on a BP drilling rig causing 11 deaths. As of today, the leak, located in the Gulf of Mexico continues to reek havoc on our natural resources and could potentially threaten shipping, production and natural gas in Alabama, Louisiana and Mississippi. Industry experts are nervous about the spill spreading west towards New Orleans, which will obstruct ships entering and leaving the Mississippi River-the largest waterway for U.S. commodity ships.
The logistics industry could feel the impact and additional risks associated with this disaster. Ships moving cargo through this major port face the dangers of tracking oil and potentially impeding clean-up efforts, says one BP official.
The danger of fire is always imminent when oil slicks are present in the water. The slicks could also give off toxic fumes, which would put workers in danger. So far, two gas platforms and one drilling rig has been evacuated.
The leaks, which are located 5,000 feet from the surface of the water are currently spewing approximately 210,000 gallons per day, according to an earlier estimate by The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. A staggering amount when compared to the Alaska Exxon Valdez disaster that occurred in June of 1989. So far, a more accurate estimate has not been established.
As of today, ship traffic has been not been affected, says a Port of New Orleans official. Two clean-up stations have been posted by The Coast Guard close to the Mississippi River for vessels that may encounter the spill. So far, the main channel to the river (The Southwest Pass) has not been affected by the spill and no commercial ships have had to use them. The Mississippi River has anywhere from 5,000 to 6,000 ship calls annually.
BP (which is financially responsible for the clean-up) continues to seek ways to plug the leaks. NOAA's website provides updates where you can track and view photos and videos of the Gulf of Mexico oil spill.
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