Diesel spills during vessel fuel transfer in San Juan Harbor

The following is the text of a press release issued by the U.S. Coast Guard:

(SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico) — The Coast Guard is responding Sunday morning to a report of a diesel spill of at least 600 gallons of diesel in the San Antonio Channel of San Juan Harbor, Puerto Rico.

The diesel spill reportedly occurred early Sunday during a vessel fuel transfer at Pier 10 and has reportedly been contained.

Coast Guard pollution investigators and Coast Guard boat crews are responding to determine the extent of the spill and impact to the waterway.

The diesel spill was initially reported to the National Response Center, who in turn reported the incident to Coast Guard Watch standers in Sector San Juan as well as other commonwealth agencies at 6:20 a.m. Sunday.

Coast Guard pollution investigators are describing the smell of fuel in the area and a sheen currently impacting the San Antonio Channel.

The diesel fuel is a light fuel that is evaporating quickly.

Mariners should report any impacted areas or diesel spill sightings to the Coast Guard Command Center in Sector San Juan at 787-289-2041 or the National Response Center at 1800-424-8802. 

The incident in under investigation.

By Professional Mariner Staff