BP halted their “Top Kill” operation Saturday, citing problems with the procedure.
The procedure was intended to stem the flow of oil and gas and ultimately kill the well by injecting heavy drilling fluids through the blow-out preventer on the seabed, down into the well.
Despite pumping a total of over 30,000 barrels of heavy mud, in three attempts at rates of up to 80 barrels a minute, and deploying a wide range of different bridging materials, the operation did not overcome the flow from the well, BP said in a news release.
BP is to move to the next step in the subsea operations, the deployment of the Lower Marine Riser Package (LMRP) Cap Containment System.
The operational plan first involves cutting and then removing the damaged riser from the top of the failed Blow-Out Preventer (BOP) to leave a cleanly-cut pipe at the top of the BOP’s LMRP. The cap is designed to be connected to a riser from a drillship and placed over the LMRP with the intention of capturing most of the oil and gas flowing from the well.
The LMRP cap is already on site and should be connected in about four days, BP officials said.
This operation has not been previously carried out in 5,000 feet of water and the successful deployment of the containment system cannot be assured, BP said.
Meanwhile, NOAA trajectory forecasts continue to show oil sheen and tar balls staying well away from the Florida Keys.
The Monday, May 31, models show the southern edge of the sheen positioned about 265 miles west of Key West.
No oil-related impacts to the Keys are forecast for at least the next 72 hours, Billy Causey, superintendent of the southeast region for NOAA’s National Marine Sanctuaries, said early Saturday evening.
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Monday, May 24, 2010
TDC BOLSTERS GULF OIL SPILL INFO ON WEBSITE
KEYS TOURISM ADVISORY 18 May 24, 2010 • 11 AM
News and Information From the Monroe County Tourist Development Council
TDC BOLSTERS GULF OIL SPILL INFO ON WEBSITE
The Monroe County Tourist Development Council has added more elements to its website to communicate accurate information regarding the relationship of the Transocean/BP oil spill in the northern Gulf of Mexico to the Florida Keys.
On the www.fla-keys.com home page is a link to a special spill section, as well as a prominent connection to live webcams, so potential visitors can see the area for themselves. The current “Video of the Week” feature shows Key West Mayor Craig Cates correcting misperceptions that the Florida Keys & Key West have already been impacted by the Gulf oil spill.
“We know the travel consumer is hungry for accurate information,” said TDC Director Harold Wheeler. “Ever since we posted the first spill-related news story on April 28, we’ve had more than 75,000 spill-related page views on our site.”
All information published is based on official authorities including the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, U.S. Coast Guard, Florida Division of Emergency Management and Monroe County Emergency Management.
The special spill section features 72-hour-in-advance oil slick trajectory graphics that can be enlarged and clearly show NOAA’s projected positions and oil densities in both the northern Gulf of Mexico and Loop Current.
The page also has a quick overview of the status of the Keys for visitors as well as links to resources for specific oil spill-related information.
News stories and a question-and-answer page regarding the Keys and the Gulf oil spill can be accessed from the special page.
Meanwhile, light oil sheen and isolated tar balls continue to remain significantly west of the Keys according to the latest NOAA trajectory models. Wednesday’s forecast shows oil residue to be positioned some 300 miles to the northwest of Key West.
On Saturday, at a special Key West City Commission meeting, federal officials expressed their confidence that with exposure to heat, weather, dispersants and evaporation, any of the oil sheen presently in the Gulf Loop Current that might get close to the Keys would likely transform into small tar balls. Tar balls, they said, would mean significantly fewer environmental consequences than aqueous oil.
"A (oil) sheen over time will break down, will become weathered (and) will evaporate." said Captain Pat DeQuattro of the U.S. Coast Guard Key West Sector. "If we’re to be impacted, it will more likely be tar balls."
Even if tar balls make their way into the Florida Straits they could be far enough offshore that they completely miss the Keys, officials added.
News and Information From the Monroe County Tourist Development Council
TDC BOLSTERS GULF OIL SPILL INFO ON WEBSITE
The Monroe County Tourist Development Council has added more elements to its website to communicate accurate information regarding the relationship of the Transocean/BP oil spill in the northern Gulf of Mexico to the Florida Keys.
On the www.fla-keys.com home page is a link to a special spill section, as well as a prominent connection to live webcams, so potential visitors can see the area for themselves. The current “Video of the Week” feature shows Key West Mayor Craig Cates correcting misperceptions that the Florida Keys & Key West have already been impacted by the Gulf oil spill.
“We know the travel consumer is hungry for accurate information,” said TDC Director Harold Wheeler. “Ever since we posted the first spill-related news story on April 28, we’ve had more than 75,000 spill-related page views on our site.”
All information published is based on official authorities including the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, U.S. Coast Guard, Florida Division of Emergency Management and Monroe County Emergency Management.
The special spill section features 72-hour-in-advance oil slick trajectory graphics that can be enlarged and clearly show NOAA’s projected positions and oil densities in both the northern Gulf of Mexico and Loop Current.
The page also has a quick overview of the status of the Keys for visitors as well as links to resources for specific oil spill-related information.
News stories and a question-and-answer page regarding the Keys and the Gulf oil spill can be accessed from the special page.
Meanwhile, light oil sheen and isolated tar balls continue to remain significantly west of the Keys according to the latest NOAA trajectory models. Wednesday’s forecast shows oil residue to be positioned some 300 miles to the northwest of Key West.
On Saturday, at a special Key West City Commission meeting, federal officials expressed their confidence that with exposure to heat, weather, dispersants and evaporation, any of the oil sheen presently in the Gulf Loop Current that might get close to the Keys would likely transform into small tar balls. Tar balls, they said, would mean significantly fewer environmental consequences than aqueous oil.
"A (oil) sheen over time will break down, will become weathered (and) will evaporate." said Captain Pat DeQuattro of the U.S. Coast Guard Key West Sector. "If we’re to be impacted, it will more likely be tar balls."
Even if tar balls make their way into the Florida Straits they could be far enough offshore that they completely miss the Keys, officials added.
Tar Balls are Worst Impacts Expected for Keys From Gulf Oil Spill
KEYS TOURISM ADVISORY May 22, 2010 • 3:15 p.m.
Officials: Tar Balls are Worst Impacts Expected for Keys From Gulf Oil Spill
KEY WEST, Fla. -- Local and federal officials sought to sort fact from speculation Saturday, telling attendees at a special city commission meeting the worst effect the Florida Keys should get from the Transocean/BP oil spill is tar balls.
Representatives from the U.S. Coast Guard and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary briefed a standing-room-only-audience at Old City Hall.
U.S. Coast Guard Key West Sector Captain Pat DeQuattro said his Unified Incident Command’s cleanup plan concentrates on mitigating tar balls, if they come to the Keys.
NOAA officials are confident with exposure to heat, weather, dispersants and evaporation, any of the oil sheen presently in the Gulf Loop Current that got close to the Keys would likely transform into small tar balls. Tar balls, they said, would have a lot less impact than a major spill and are less toxic.
“A (oil) sheen over time will break down, will become weathered (and) will evaporate.” said DeQuattro. “If we’re to be impacted, it will more likely be tar balls.”
Sean Morton, superintendent of NOAA’s Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary said, for the present time, the Gulf Loop Current was actually taking the light oil sheen towards the southwest, away from the Keys.
“In the 72-hour (spill trajectory) forecast, what NOAA is predicting is that the sheen and tar balls that could be observed in the water are moving west, away from the Florida Keys,” Morton said.
Although the island chain has not seen physical impacts from the Gulf oil spill, Keys lodging and other visitor-related businesses have been hit hard with reservations cancellations and calls from nervous visitors confused by speculative reports of a looming environmental disaster in the Keys.
“Yes, our economy has been effected by this because of the perception that the Keys has oil on it or tar balls coming up from the spill,” said Key West Mayor Craig Cates. “We do not. Key West is open for business (and) the water is clear, this fishing is great, the weather is fine and Memorial (Day) weekend is coming up.”
Officials: Tar Balls are Worst Impacts Expected for Keys From Gulf Oil Spill
KEY WEST, Fla. -- Local and federal officials sought to sort fact from speculation Saturday, telling attendees at a special city commission meeting the worst effect the Florida Keys should get from the Transocean/BP oil spill is tar balls.
Representatives from the U.S. Coast Guard and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary briefed a standing-room-only-audience at Old City Hall.
U.S. Coast Guard Key West Sector Captain Pat DeQuattro said his Unified Incident Command’s cleanup plan concentrates on mitigating tar balls, if they come to the Keys.
NOAA officials are confident with exposure to heat, weather, dispersants and evaporation, any of the oil sheen presently in the Gulf Loop Current that got close to the Keys would likely transform into small tar balls. Tar balls, they said, would have a lot less impact than a major spill and are less toxic.
“A (oil) sheen over time will break down, will become weathered (and) will evaporate.” said DeQuattro. “If we’re to be impacted, it will more likely be tar balls.”
Sean Morton, superintendent of NOAA’s Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary said, for the present time, the Gulf Loop Current was actually taking the light oil sheen towards the southwest, away from the Keys.
“In the 72-hour (spill trajectory) forecast, what NOAA is predicting is that the sheen and tar balls that could be observed in the water are moving west, away from the Florida Keys,” Morton said.
Although the island chain has not seen physical impacts from the Gulf oil spill, Keys lodging and other visitor-related businesses have been hit hard with reservations cancellations and calls from nervous visitors confused by speculative reports of a looming environmental disaster in the Keys.
“Yes, our economy has been effected by this because of the perception that the Keys has oil on it or tar balls coming up from the spill,” said Key West Mayor Craig Cates. “We do not. Key West is open for business (and) the water is clear, this fishing is great, the weather is fine and Memorial (Day) weekend is coming up.”
Gulf Spill Oil Sheen and Tar Balls Forecast to Remain West of Keys
KEYS TOURISM ADVISORY 17 May 21, 2010 • 1 PM
News and Information From the Monroe County Tourist Development Council
NOAA Forecast: Gulf Spill Oil Sheen, Tar Balls Forecast to Remain West of Keys
Oil trajectory maps, released by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration show light and very light sheens of oil and scattered tar balls from the Gulf oil spill in the Loop Current remaining well to the west of the Florida Keys through Sunday. The same forecast is likely to continue further into next week.
According to NOAA, the forecast position of the southern point of the sheen on Sunday is about 300 miles to the west of Key West.
Meanwhile, NOAA analysis show most of the oil, especially heavy concentrations, has not entered the Loop Current.
During a news conference late Thursday, NOAA administrator Dr. Jane Lubchenco reiterated that finding and stated, "If you look at the satellite images, it is obvious that the bulk of the oil is far away from the Loop Current."
If any of the oil makes it to the vicinity of the Florida Straits, it would be highly weathered and both the natural process of evaporation and the application of dispersants would reduce the oil volume significantly, Lubchenco said.
Oil entrained in the Loop Current would require persistent onshore winds or an eddy on the edge of the Loop Current for it to reach the Florida shoreline. If this were to occur, the weathered and diluted oil would likely appear in isolated locations in the form of tar balls, NOAA wrote in a statement.
On Thursday, Florida Gov. Charlie Crist added Monroe County, in the Florida Keys, to a list of two-dozen Florida counties already under a state of emergency declaration. Even though no Florida county has seen oil, the declaration was issued so counties can pre-qualify for federal reimbursement funding and individual business loans, if needed.
News and Information From the Monroe County Tourist Development Council
NOAA Forecast: Gulf Spill Oil Sheen, Tar Balls Forecast to Remain West of Keys
Oil trajectory maps, released by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration show light and very light sheens of oil and scattered tar balls from the Gulf oil spill in the Loop Current remaining well to the west of the Florida Keys through Sunday. The same forecast is likely to continue further into next week.
According to NOAA, the forecast position of the southern point of the sheen on Sunday is about 300 miles to the west of Key West.
Meanwhile, NOAA analysis show most of the oil, especially heavy concentrations, has not entered the Loop Current.
During a news conference late Thursday, NOAA administrator Dr. Jane Lubchenco reiterated that finding and stated, "If you look at the satellite images, it is obvious that the bulk of the oil is far away from the Loop Current."
If any of the oil makes it to the vicinity of the Florida Straits, it would be highly weathered and both the natural process of evaporation and the application of dispersants would reduce the oil volume significantly, Lubchenco said.
Oil entrained in the Loop Current would require persistent onshore winds or an eddy on the edge of the Loop Current for it to reach the Florida shoreline. If this were to occur, the weathered and diluted oil would likely appear in isolated locations in the form of tar balls, NOAA wrote in a statement.
On Thursday, Florida Gov. Charlie Crist added Monroe County, in the Florida Keys, to a list of two-dozen Florida counties already under a state of emergency declaration. Even though no Florida county has seen oil, the declaration was issued so counties can pre-qualify for federal reimbursement funding and individual business loans, if needed.
Friday, May 21, 2010
Rush Limbaugh Offers Advice on Oil Spill in the Gulf of Mexico
We're saved! Rush Limbaugh has figured out a way to fix the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. His solution is to do... nothing. Mr. Limbaugh offered his advice on his recent radio broadcast “The ocean will take care of this on its own if it was left alone and left out there. It’s natural. It’s as natural as the ocean water is.”
Pensacola Beach and Perdido Key are open
Pensacola Beach and Perdido Key are open! Our area has not been impacted by the oil spill off Louisiana’s coast, nor is there a current forecast for a projected landfall. Our water is open for swimming and fishing, and quality Florida seafood is readily available for you to enjoy.
We are closely monitoring official information sources. The Deepwater Horizon Response Team (U.S. Coast Guard, Homeland Security, NOAA, BP, Transocean and the Department of the Interior) is working diligently to contain the oil spill. We will continue to monitor the situation closely and are here to help answer your vacation questions. Please check with your hotels and rental properties as many of them have relaxed their cancellation policies to better meet your travel needs during this time.
Provided by the Pensacola CVB
We are closely monitoring official information sources. The Deepwater Horizon Response Team (U.S. Coast Guard, Homeland Security, NOAA, BP, Transocean and the Department of the Interior) is working diligently to contain the oil spill. We will continue to monitor the situation closely and are here to help answer your vacation questions. Please check with your hotels and rental properties as many of them have relaxed their cancellation policies to better meet your travel needs during this time.
Provided by the Pensacola CVB
BP Oil Cleanup Presents No Disruption for Visitors to New Orleans
BP Oil Cleanup Presents No Disruption for Visitors to New Orleans- May 20, 2010 - 4:14 p.m. CT: It's business as usual for visitors. The city is welcoming hundreds of thousands of business and leisure visitors this month, including cruise ship passengers. The New Orleans Convention and Visitors Bureau is closely monitoring cleanup efforts and we are in constant communication with city and state officials at the Command Center. New Orleans is located approximately 100 miles inland, and we do not anticipate any disruption in guest service or impact to visitors, as oil reaches the islands of the extreme coastline of Louisiana, approximately 100 miles from New Orleans. Some restaurants have made alternate arrangements when necessary to procure seafood from other locations while some of the waters are closed for fishing. Quality Louisiana seafood is readily available for consumers to enjoy.
Provided by the New Orleans CVB
Provided by the New Orleans CVB
NOAA Oil Spill Forecast for May 21
May 21, 2010 • 1 PM
News and Information From the Monroe County Tourist Development Council
NOAA Forecast: Gulf Spill Oil Sheen, Tar Balls Forecast to Remain West of Keys
Oil trajectory maps, released by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration show light and very light sheens of oil and scattered tar balls from the Gulf oil spill in the Loop Current remaining well to the west of the Florida Keys through Sunday. The same forecast is likely to continue further into next week.
According to NOAA, the forecast position of the southern point of the sheen on Sunday is about 300 miles to the west of Key West.
Meanwhile, NOAA analysis show most of the oil, especially heavy concentrations, has not entered the Loop Current.
During a news conference late Thursday, NOAA administrator Dr. Jane Lubchenco reiterated that finding and stated, "If you look at the satellite images, it is obvious that the bulk of the oil is far away from the Loop Current."
If any of the oil makes it to the vicinity of the Florida Straits, it would be highly weathered and both the natural process of evaporation and the application of dispersants would reduce the oil volume significantly, Lubchenco said.
Oil entrained in the Loop Current would require persistent onshore winds or an eddy on the edge of the Loop Current for it to reach the Florida shoreline. If this were to occur, the weathered and diluted oil would likely appear in isolated locations in the form of tar balls, NOAA wrote in a statement.
On Thursday, Florida Gov. Charlie Crist added Monroe County, in the Florida Keys, to a list of two-dozen Florida counties already under a state of emergency declaration. Even though no Florida county has seen oil, the declaration was issued so counties can pre-qualify for federal reimbursement funding and individual business loans, if needed.
News and Information From the Monroe County Tourist Development Council
NOAA Forecast: Gulf Spill Oil Sheen, Tar Balls Forecast to Remain West of Keys
Oil trajectory maps, released by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration show light and very light sheens of oil and scattered tar balls from the Gulf oil spill in the Loop Current remaining well to the west of the Florida Keys through Sunday. The same forecast is likely to continue further into next week.
According to NOAA, the forecast position of the southern point of the sheen on Sunday is about 300 miles to the west of Key West.
Meanwhile, NOAA analysis show most of the oil, especially heavy concentrations, has not entered the Loop Current.
During a news conference late Thursday, NOAA administrator Dr. Jane Lubchenco reiterated that finding and stated, "If you look at the satellite images, it is obvious that the bulk of the oil is far away from the Loop Current."
If any of the oil makes it to the vicinity of the Florida Straits, it would be highly weathered and both the natural process of evaporation and the application of dispersants would reduce the oil volume significantly, Lubchenco said.
Oil entrained in the Loop Current would require persistent onshore winds or an eddy on the edge of the Loop Current for it to reach the Florida shoreline. If this were to occur, the weathered and diluted oil would likely appear in isolated locations in the form of tar balls, NOAA wrote in a statement.
On Thursday, Florida Gov. Charlie Crist added Monroe County, in the Florida Keys, to a list of two-dozen Florida counties already under a state of emergency declaration. Even though no Florida county has seen oil, the declaration was issued so counties can pre-qualify for federal reimbursement funding and individual business loans, if needed.
How Much Oil is Being Leaked?
Want to know how much oil has leaked to date based upon different viewpoints and estimates since the BP oil rig sank in April? The above calculator will tell you how much oil has been spilled into the Gulf of Mexico based upon NOAA's estimates or Outside Estimates or BP's worst case estimate or other Expert's worst case estimates... or you can calculate it based upon your own estimates.
Florida is still open for business - Remarks by Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen
Remarks by Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen
Florida is still open for business
Thursday, May 20, 2010
On Wednesday, the U.S. Coast Guard announced that the tar balls discovered on the Florida Keys shoreline were not linked to the Gulf oil spill.
What does this mean: It means that Florida is still open for business! Madam speaker, public beaches in my Congressional district of Miami and the Florida Keys are open—their waters warm and inviting. Charter boat captains eagerly await the opportunity to take tourists deep sea fishing. Similarly, dive shops stand by to take visitors on a tour of some of the greatest underwater treasures in this world: the Florida Keys coral reefs.
For those outside of Florida, it is important to note that fresh caught fish from our Sunshine state is just as fresh as ever. As are our stone crabs, spiny lobster, and shrimp.
Recent news reports have caused a premature panic for visitors. And while it is important that coastal communities prepare for the possibility of oil coming ashore; Florida is open for business. Come on down, the water’s fine.
Florida is still open for business
Thursday, May 20, 2010
On Wednesday, the U.S. Coast Guard announced that the tar balls discovered on the Florida Keys shoreline were not linked to the Gulf oil spill.
What does this mean: It means that Florida is still open for business! Madam speaker, public beaches in my Congressional district of Miami and the Florida Keys are open—their waters warm and inviting. Charter boat captains eagerly await the opportunity to take tourists deep sea fishing. Similarly, dive shops stand by to take visitors on a tour of some of the greatest underwater treasures in this world: the Florida Keys coral reefs.
For those outside of Florida, it is important to note that fresh caught fish from our Sunshine state is just as fresh as ever. As are our stone crabs, spiny lobster, and shrimp.
Recent news reports have caused a premature panic for visitors. And while it is important that coastal communities prepare for the possibility of oil coming ashore; Florida is open for business. Come on down, the water’s fine.
BP Oil Spill Forecast
The following chart and image displays a very high probability of the trajectory of the the BP oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. This oil spill forecast was developed on May 17 by the University of South Florida for Senator Nelson. According to the oil spill forecast below, the Florida Keys may begin to see traces of oil by May 23 to May 24. Miami may begin to see traces of oil by May 28.
Oil Spill and Loop Current Map
The map below shows the approximate location and size of the BP oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico as of May 18, 2010. The arrows show the direction of currents in the Gulf of Mexico including the Loop Current. Click on the image to enlarge it.
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Satellite Image of Oil Spill in Gulf of Mexico
A satellite image of the BP oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico taken on May 17, 2010. Click on image for larger image.
The outlined area is the oil slick as seen from today’s satellite imagery. The feature of the
long branch of oil slick extending to the south validated our previous model forecast based
on 05/15 initialization. Our predicted “very likely” pattern becomes reality. Check our
previous forecast at http://ocgweb.marine.usf.edu/~liu/oil.html.
This satellite imagery is used to initialize our oil spill trajectory models.
The outlined area is the oil slick as seen from today’s satellite imagery. The feature of the
long branch of oil slick extending to the south validated our previous model forecast based
on 05/15 initialization. Our predicted “very likely” pattern becomes reality. Check our
previous forecast at http://ocgweb.marine.usf.edu/~liu/oil.html.
This satellite imagery is used to initialize our oil spill trajectory models.
Questions and Answers Regarding the Florida Keys
Questions and Answers Regarding the Florida Keys And the Gulf Oil Spill
Because of new developments regarding the Transocean/BP (British Petroleum) oil spill and its relationship
to the Florida Keys, the Monroe County Tourist Development Council has updated this Question and Answer document that was originally published May 4 and revised on May 13. This should be helpful to answer questions from current or potential visitors. It is also published on the Keys website (www.fla-keys.com) in a special oil spill-related section. Since May 3, that section has received some 50,000 views.
I heard that the Keys are in imminent danger of being affected by the oil spill.
According to officials at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or NOAA, a light sheen of oil from the Transocean/BP oil spill has entered the Loop Current. NOAA insists that the time it would take for this oil to travel to the vicinity of the Keys, it would be highly weathered and both the natural process of evaporation and application of dispersants would reduce the oil volume significantly, NOAA said. It is still unclear whether the weathered oil would actually arrive in Keys regions or bypass the area and remain either in the Loop Current or the Gulf Stream (see explanation of Loop Current below). The bulk of the spill should remain away from the Loop Current, NOAA said.
What is the Loop Current?
The Gulf Loop Current is a dynamic, clockwise warm-water current that carries water from the Yucatan
Channel north to the Gulf of Mexico, then eastward and looping back down south off the Florida west coast,
past the Dry Tortugas and into the Gulf Stream, also known as the Florida Current.
I have heard that oil will definitely hit the Keys and the impacts will be devastating.
NOAA and other officials say the kind of impacts the Keys and areas on the east coast might experience
would be much different than what is transpiring in the northern Gulf of Mexico. Most oil spill experts say any
oil carried by the Loop Current would be more dispersed and highly weathered by the time it gets to the
Keys, which is some 475 miles from the spill site. That means it is highly unlikely that large “rivers” of heavy
oil would impact the Keys. The oil entrained in the Loop Current would require persistent onshore winds or
an eddy on the edge of the Loop Current for it to reach the Florida shoreline. If this were to occur, the
weathered and diluted oil would likely appear in isolated locations in the form of tar balls. While arrival of oil
in any form is unacceptable, tar balls are “significantly less toxic,” according to Florida Department of
Environmental Protection Secretary Michael Sole. It is also possible that one area of the Keys could be
affected and others not, or that the oil residues could remain in the Loop Current and Gulf Stream and
completely miss the Keys.
What about the oil tar balls that were recently found in Key West and other parts of the Keys?
There was a lot of news coverage and I heard they were from the Gulf oil spill.
The U.S. Coast Guard tested all tar balls and found none were from the oil spill. Finding tar balls in Keys
waters or on area beaches is not an unusual occurrence. The Keys are located along a busy commercial
shipping route, with some 8,000 vessels passing by on an annual basis, and commercial vessels sometimes
discharge bilge water that has oil in it. Tar balls can drift into Keys waters from many other areas, not just
the northern Gulf region.
What is a tar ball?
A tar ball is a blob of oil that has been weathered after floating in the ocean. Tar ball concentration and
features have been used to assess the extent of oil spills and their composition can also be used to identify
their sources of origin. They are slowly decomposed by microorganisms. While not dangerous to most
people, tar balls can cause allergic reactions and should only be retrieved by trained personnel. Tar balls
can sometimes occur naturally and as such are not always associated with oil spills.
Can you guarantee me that oil residues will not make its way into the Keys during my vacation?
Nobody can make a long-term guarantee that residues from the Gulf Coast oil spill will or will not be in the
Keys. However, at the current time, expected impacts do not seem to be a serious issue for travelers. When
making reservations for accommodations and water-related activities, it may be prudent to discuss in
advance any cancellation and refund policies in the event oil residues impacts the immediate area of activity.
I hear authorities have shut down fishing in the Keys.
That is not true. A large area in the Gulf of Mexico, west of Florida and the Keys, is closed. But no areas of
Florida, including the Keys, are under the order at this time. This means that Keys-caught seafood has not
been affected and is safe to consume.
Is it safe to dive, swim and participate in other water sports in the Keys?
There are no advisories in the Keys currently in effect due to the Gulf oil spill. The Monroe County Health
Department is monitoring the situation and would issue an advisory in the event of any health-related risk.
I’m apprehensive about traveling to the Keys because I don’t want to lose money if oil comes and
ruins my vacation.
Each property has its own cancellation policy. It is prudent to check with the hotel as well as any other
travel-related operator in advance to determine cancellation policies and if management will offer refunds or
credits in the event oil adversely affects Keys waters.
I hear the Florida Keys and much of Florida are under a state of emergency.
Nineteen of the state’s 67 counties are under a state of emergency, even though no impacts have been
seen in Florida as of Thursday, May 20. On Wednesday, May 19, the Monroe County Commission (the
county that comprises the Keys) voted to ask Florida Gov. Charlie Crist to declare a state of emergency for
the Florida Keys. That was primarily done so the Keys can qualify for federal reimbursement funding and
small business loans, if needed. Visitors continue to be welcomed to all Florida areas that are under a state
of emergency.
Are there protective actions being taken to safeguard the environment, if needed?
The U.S. Coast Guard is the lead government agency responsible for oversight of any necessary cleanup
and remediation activities. The Coast Guard works in conjunction with other local, state and federal
authorities to enact a 725-page area contingency plan that includes oil spill response actions. Some of the
other agencies involved are NOAA’s Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, the Department of the Interior, Florida Department of Environmental Protection and Monroe County Emergency Management. All are operating under a Unified Command, guided by the Florida Keys Area Contingency Plan. Assessment and cleanup crews have been mobilized to mitigate tar balls, or any other unexpected effects. Currently, no
protective actions are interrupting water- or land-related visitor activities in the Florida Keys.
When will this be over?
Officials don’t know for sure. The outcome and timing depend on when leaks at the Transocean/BP well site
can be plugged or effectively contained and how effective current mitigation efforts are in containing the oil
already in the northern Gulf of Mexico.
Where can I get more information on the oil spill?
The Keys tourism council is posting information — including official NOAA oil slick trajectory maps — on its
website at www.fla-keys.com as well as on Twitter and Facebook:
http://twitter.com/thefloridakeys • http://www.facebook.com/floridakeysandkeywest
Spill-related websites includes:
http://www.dep.state.fl.us/deepwaterhorizon/default.htm
http://www.noaa.gov
http://www.deepwaterhorizonresponse.com
Because of new developments regarding the Transocean/BP (British Petroleum) oil spill and its relationship
to the Florida Keys, the Monroe County Tourist Development Council has updated this Question and Answer document that was originally published May 4 and revised on May 13. This should be helpful to answer questions from current or potential visitors. It is also published on the Keys website (www.fla-keys.com) in a special oil spill-related section. Since May 3, that section has received some 50,000 views.
I heard that the Keys are in imminent danger of being affected by the oil spill.
According to officials at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or NOAA, a light sheen of oil from the Transocean/BP oil spill has entered the Loop Current. NOAA insists that the time it would take for this oil to travel to the vicinity of the Keys, it would be highly weathered and both the natural process of evaporation and application of dispersants would reduce the oil volume significantly, NOAA said. It is still unclear whether the weathered oil would actually arrive in Keys regions or bypass the area and remain either in the Loop Current or the Gulf Stream (see explanation of Loop Current below). The bulk of the spill should remain away from the Loop Current, NOAA said.
What is the Loop Current?
The Gulf Loop Current is a dynamic, clockwise warm-water current that carries water from the Yucatan
Channel north to the Gulf of Mexico, then eastward and looping back down south off the Florida west coast,
past the Dry Tortugas and into the Gulf Stream, also known as the Florida Current.
I have heard that oil will definitely hit the Keys and the impacts will be devastating.
NOAA and other officials say the kind of impacts the Keys and areas on the east coast might experience
would be much different than what is transpiring in the northern Gulf of Mexico. Most oil spill experts say any
oil carried by the Loop Current would be more dispersed and highly weathered by the time it gets to the
Keys, which is some 475 miles from the spill site. That means it is highly unlikely that large “rivers” of heavy
oil would impact the Keys. The oil entrained in the Loop Current would require persistent onshore winds or
an eddy on the edge of the Loop Current for it to reach the Florida shoreline. If this were to occur, the
weathered and diluted oil would likely appear in isolated locations in the form of tar balls. While arrival of oil
in any form is unacceptable, tar balls are “significantly less toxic,” according to Florida Department of
Environmental Protection Secretary Michael Sole. It is also possible that one area of the Keys could be
affected and others not, or that the oil residues could remain in the Loop Current and Gulf Stream and
completely miss the Keys.
What about the oil tar balls that were recently found in Key West and other parts of the Keys?
There was a lot of news coverage and I heard they were from the Gulf oil spill.
The U.S. Coast Guard tested all tar balls and found none were from the oil spill. Finding tar balls in Keys
waters or on area beaches is not an unusual occurrence. The Keys are located along a busy commercial
shipping route, with some 8,000 vessels passing by on an annual basis, and commercial vessels sometimes
discharge bilge water that has oil in it. Tar balls can drift into Keys waters from many other areas, not just
the northern Gulf region.
What is a tar ball?
A tar ball is a blob of oil that has been weathered after floating in the ocean. Tar ball concentration and
features have been used to assess the extent of oil spills and their composition can also be used to identify
their sources of origin. They are slowly decomposed by microorganisms. While not dangerous to most
people, tar balls can cause allergic reactions and should only be retrieved by trained personnel. Tar balls
can sometimes occur naturally and as such are not always associated with oil spills.
Can you guarantee me that oil residues will not make its way into the Keys during my vacation?
Nobody can make a long-term guarantee that residues from the Gulf Coast oil spill will or will not be in the
Keys. However, at the current time, expected impacts do not seem to be a serious issue for travelers. When
making reservations for accommodations and water-related activities, it may be prudent to discuss in
advance any cancellation and refund policies in the event oil residues impacts the immediate area of activity.
I hear authorities have shut down fishing in the Keys.
That is not true. A large area in the Gulf of Mexico, west of Florida and the Keys, is closed. But no areas of
Florida, including the Keys, are under the order at this time. This means that Keys-caught seafood has not
been affected and is safe to consume.
Is it safe to dive, swim and participate in other water sports in the Keys?
There are no advisories in the Keys currently in effect due to the Gulf oil spill. The Monroe County Health
Department is monitoring the situation and would issue an advisory in the event of any health-related risk.
I’m apprehensive about traveling to the Keys because I don’t want to lose money if oil comes and
ruins my vacation.
Each property has its own cancellation policy. It is prudent to check with the hotel as well as any other
travel-related operator in advance to determine cancellation policies and if management will offer refunds or
credits in the event oil adversely affects Keys waters.
I hear the Florida Keys and much of Florida are under a state of emergency.
Nineteen of the state’s 67 counties are under a state of emergency, even though no impacts have been
seen in Florida as of Thursday, May 20. On Wednesday, May 19, the Monroe County Commission (the
county that comprises the Keys) voted to ask Florida Gov. Charlie Crist to declare a state of emergency for
the Florida Keys. That was primarily done so the Keys can qualify for federal reimbursement funding and
small business loans, if needed. Visitors continue to be welcomed to all Florida areas that are under a state
of emergency.
Are there protective actions being taken to safeguard the environment, if needed?
The U.S. Coast Guard is the lead government agency responsible for oversight of any necessary cleanup
and remediation activities. The Coast Guard works in conjunction with other local, state and federal
authorities to enact a 725-page area contingency plan that includes oil spill response actions. Some of the
other agencies involved are NOAA’s Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, the Department of the Interior, Florida Department of Environmental Protection and Monroe County Emergency Management. All are operating under a Unified Command, guided by the Florida Keys Area Contingency Plan. Assessment and cleanup crews have been mobilized to mitigate tar balls, or any other unexpected effects. Currently, no
protective actions are interrupting water- or land-related visitor activities in the Florida Keys.
When will this be over?
Officials don’t know for sure. The outcome and timing depend on when leaks at the Transocean/BP well site
can be plugged or effectively contained and how effective current mitigation efforts are in containing the oil
already in the northern Gulf of Mexico.
Where can I get more information on the oil spill?
The Keys tourism council is posting information — including official NOAA oil slick trajectory maps — on its
website at www.fla-keys.com as well as on Twitter and Facebook:
http://twitter.com/thefloridakeys • http://www.facebook.com/floridakeysandkeywest
Spill-related websites includes:
http://www.dep.state.fl.us/deepwaterhorizon/default.htm
http://www.noaa.gov
http://www.deepwaterhorizonresponse.com
NOAA Observations Indicate Small Portion of Light Oil Sheen Has Entered the Loop Current
KEYS TOURISM ADVISORY 15 May 19, 2010 • 5:30 PM
News and Information From the Monroe County Tourist Development Council
NOAA Observations Indicate Small Portion of Light Oil Sheen Has Entered the Loop Current
Loss-of-Business Resources Available
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration announced Wednesday afternoon that their latest observations indicate a small portion of the Transocean/BP spill’s oil slick has reached the Loop Current in the form of light to very light sheens.
In the time it would take for this oil to travel to the vicinity of the Florida Straits, it would be highly weathered and both the natural process of evaporation and application of dispersants would reduce the oil volume significantly, NOAA officials said.
NOAA said the oil may get caught in a clockwise eddy in the middle of the Gulf, and not be carried to the Florida Straits at all.
Oil entrained in the Loop Current would require persistent onshore winds or an eddy on the edge of the Loop Current for it to reach the Florida shoreline. If this were to occur, the weathered and diluted oil would likely appear in isolated locations in the form of tar balls.
Earlier Wednesday, the U.S. Coast Guard confirmed that tests on tar balls found Monday and Tuesday on Key West’s Fort Zachary Taylor State Park beach and other areas of the Lower Keys and the Dry Tortugas were not from the Transocean/BP oil spill.
However, there was intensive news coverage and a number of news stories prematurely and erroneously concluded the tar balls were from the Gulf oil spill. Even though most media outlets have updated their news stories, calls to Keys visitor centers as well as vacation reservations cancellations increased.
Information regarding loss-of-business claims (including an online claim form) from BP and applying for federal assistance is available at http://www.deepwaterhorizonresponse.com/go/doc/2931/542307. BP’s claims hotline is 1-800-440-0858.
At its meeting Wednesday, the Monroe County Commission passed a resolution to ask Florida Gov. Charlie Crist to declare a state of emergency for Monroe County in order to qualify for federal assistance and small business loans.
News and Information From the Monroe County Tourist Development Council
NOAA Observations Indicate Small Portion of Light Oil Sheen Has Entered the Loop Current
Loss-of-Business Resources Available
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration announced Wednesday afternoon that their latest observations indicate a small portion of the Transocean/BP spill’s oil slick has reached the Loop Current in the form of light to very light sheens.
In the time it would take for this oil to travel to the vicinity of the Florida Straits, it would be highly weathered and both the natural process of evaporation and application of dispersants would reduce the oil volume significantly, NOAA officials said.
NOAA said the oil may get caught in a clockwise eddy in the middle of the Gulf, and not be carried to the Florida Straits at all.
Oil entrained in the Loop Current would require persistent onshore winds or an eddy on the edge of the Loop Current for it to reach the Florida shoreline. If this were to occur, the weathered and diluted oil would likely appear in isolated locations in the form of tar balls.
Earlier Wednesday, the U.S. Coast Guard confirmed that tests on tar balls found Monday and Tuesday on Key West’s Fort Zachary Taylor State Park beach and other areas of the Lower Keys and the Dry Tortugas were not from the Transocean/BP oil spill.
However, there was intensive news coverage and a number of news stories prematurely and erroneously concluded the tar balls were from the Gulf oil spill. Even though most media outlets have updated their news stories, calls to Keys visitor centers as well as vacation reservations cancellations increased.
Information regarding loss-of-business claims (including an online claim form) from BP and applying for federal assistance is available at http://www.deepwaterhorizonresponse.com/go/doc/2931/542307. BP’s claims hotline is 1-800-440-0858.
At its meeting Wednesday, the Monroe County Commission passed a resolution to ask Florida Gov. Charlie Crist to declare a state of emergency for Monroe County in order to qualify for federal assistance and small business loans.
Coast Guard: Tar Balls Not From Transocean/BP Sill
Coast Guard Key West Sector Captain Pat DeQuattro confirmed Wednesday that tests on tar balls found Monday and Tuesday on Key West Fort Zachary Taylor State Park and other areas of the Lower Keys are not from the Transocean/BP oil spill in the northern Gulf of Mexico. He said tar balls were flown last night to a laboratory in Connecticut and tested early Wednesday morning.
Captain Kevin Gillespie, a Coast Guard liaison to the Florida Emergency Operations Center, sent the following e-mail to state officials:
From: Kevin.Gillespie@uscg.mil
To: Sole, Michael; Halstead, David
Cc: DeLorenzo, Mike
Sent: Wed May 19 06:37:15 2010
Subject: Lab Results on Tar Balls
Good morning Sirs. Report came early this morning stating that tar balls collected from Fort Zachary State Park are NOT RELATED to Deepwater Horizon.
Capt Kevin Gillespie
CG LNO to FL EOC
Captain Kevin Gillespie, a Coast Guard liaison to the Florida Emergency Operations Center, sent the following e-mail to state officials:
From: Kevin.Gillespie@uscg.mil
To: Sole, Michael; Halstead, David
Cc: DeLorenzo, Mike
Sent: Wed May 19 06:37:15 2010
Subject: Lab Results on Tar Balls
Good morning Sirs. Report came early this morning stating that tar balls collected from Fort Zachary State Park are NOT RELATED to Deepwater Horizon.
Capt Kevin Gillespie
CG LNO to FL EOC
Coast Guard Reports Discovery of Tar Balls at State Park
KEYS TOURISM ADVISORY 12 May 18, 2010 • 8 AM EDT
News and Information From the Monroe County Tourist Development Council
Coast Guard Reports Discovery of Tar Balls at State Park: Source Not Identified
Late Monday night, officials at U.S. Coast Guard Key West Sector distributed a news release regarding the discovery of 20 tar balls found earlier in the day by Florida State Park rangers on the beach at Key West’s Fort Zachary Taylor State Park.
While the Coast Guard did not identify the source of the tar balls, several media outlets have already concluded they came from the Transocean/BP spill in the northern Gulf of Mexico.
The Coast Guard is shipping the tar balls to a laboratory for analysis to determine the actual origin of source, which is not known at this time, according to Captain Pat DeQuattro, the commander of the Key West Sector.
By early Monday evening, Coast Guard pollution investigators completed a subsequent shoreline survey of the Fort Zachary area and no additional tar balls were found.
Later today, officials from the Coast Guard and Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary are to conduct shoreline surveys to determine if any additional tar balls are present. The Coast Guard is also scheduled to conduct an aerial survey.
We hope to have an update later today, after Coast Guard and Sanctuary officials complete their surveys.
The public is asked to phone in sightings of any tar balls to the Coast Guard at 1-800-424-8802. Tar balls are considered hazardous materials and should only be retrieved by trained personnel, officials said.
Meanwhile, as of late Monday, officials continue to say oil from the northern Gulf spill is not in the Loop Current.
"The oil has not entered the Loop Current at this time," said Coast Guard Rear Admiral Mary Landry at a news conference in Robert, La., Monday afternoon. "A leading edge (of the) sheen is getting close to it, but it has not entered the Loop Current."
Notes in NOAA’s oil slick trajectory forecast for Thursday, May 20, point out: “As the winds weaken, ocean models indicate that any tar balls leading the southern edge of the plume could begin moving more to the SW and potentially into the Loop Current.”
Spill-related websites, primarily focusing on affected areas, include:
http://www.dep.state.fl.us/deepwaterhorizon/default.htm • http://www.noaa.gov
http://www.deepwaterhorizonresponse.com
TDC website with spill-related information for visitors: http://www.fla-keys.com
News and Information From the Monroe County Tourist Development Council
Coast Guard Reports Discovery of Tar Balls at State Park: Source Not Identified
Late Monday night, officials at U.S. Coast Guard Key West Sector distributed a news release regarding the discovery of 20 tar balls found earlier in the day by Florida State Park rangers on the beach at Key West’s Fort Zachary Taylor State Park.
While the Coast Guard did not identify the source of the tar balls, several media outlets have already concluded they came from the Transocean/BP spill in the northern Gulf of Mexico.
The Coast Guard is shipping the tar balls to a laboratory for analysis to determine the actual origin of source, which is not known at this time, according to Captain Pat DeQuattro, the commander of the Key West Sector.
By early Monday evening, Coast Guard pollution investigators completed a subsequent shoreline survey of the Fort Zachary area and no additional tar balls were found.
Later today, officials from the Coast Guard and Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary are to conduct shoreline surveys to determine if any additional tar balls are present. The Coast Guard is also scheduled to conduct an aerial survey.
We hope to have an update later today, after Coast Guard and Sanctuary officials complete their surveys.
The public is asked to phone in sightings of any tar balls to the Coast Guard at 1-800-424-8802. Tar balls are considered hazardous materials and should only be retrieved by trained personnel, officials said.
Meanwhile, as of late Monday, officials continue to say oil from the northern Gulf spill is not in the Loop Current.
"The oil has not entered the Loop Current at this time," said Coast Guard Rear Admiral Mary Landry at a news conference in Robert, La., Monday afternoon. "A leading edge (of the) sheen is getting close to it, but it has not entered the Loop Current."
Notes in NOAA’s oil slick trajectory forecast for Thursday, May 20, point out: “As the winds weaken, ocean models indicate that any tar balls leading the southern edge of the plume could begin moving more to the SW and potentially into the Loop Current.”
Spill-related websites, primarily focusing on affected areas, include:
http://www.dep.state.fl.us/deepwaterhorizon/default.htm • http://www.noaa.gov
http://www.deepwaterhorizonresponse.com
TDC website with spill-related information for visitors: http://www.fla-keys.com
Officials Dispute Claim of Oil in the Loop Current
KEYS TOURISM ADVISORY 10 May 13, 2010 • 4:30 PM EDT
News and Information From the Monroe County Tourist Development Council
Officials Dispute Claim of Oil in the Loop Current
Federal and local officials are disputing a Thursday report on a Keys radio station that oil has entered the Loop Current.
This morning on WWUS/U.S. 1 Radio, Dr. Mitch Roffer, publisher of Roffer's Ocean Fishing Forecasting Service, told News Director Bill Becker “a filament of oil is entering the Loop Current.”
He went on to say that the oil was headed to the Keys and should arrive there in two to three weeks.
Sean Morton, superintendent of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, said that National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration analysis shows the oil north of the Loop Current.
Irene Toner, director of Monroe County Emergency Management, said her sources at the State of Florida Division of Emergency Management said early Thursday afternoon the oil was 80 miles north of the Loop Current.
News and Information From the Monroe County Tourist Development Council
Officials Dispute Claim of Oil in the Loop Current
Federal and local officials are disputing a Thursday report on a Keys radio station that oil has entered the Loop Current.
This morning on WWUS/U.S. 1 Radio, Dr. Mitch Roffer, publisher of Roffer's Ocean Fishing Forecasting Service, told News Director Bill Becker “a filament of oil is entering the Loop Current.”
He went on to say that the oil was headed to the Keys and should arrive there in two to three weeks.
Sean Morton, superintendent of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, said that National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration analysis shows the oil north of the Loop Current.
Irene Toner, director of Monroe County Emergency Management, said her sources at the State of Florida Division of Emergency Management said early Thursday afternoon the oil was 80 miles north of the Loop Current.
Distance Between Loop Current and Oil Slick Increases
KEYS TOURISM ADVISORY 7 May 10, 2010 • 11:30 AM EDT
News and Information From the Monroe County Tourist Development Council
Distance Between Loop Current and Oil Slick Increases
Winds in the northern Gulf of Mexico are helping to keep the oil slick, emanating from the Transocean/BP spill, away from the Loop Current as well as other coastal regions of Florida.
According to official estimates, as of Monday morning the southern edge of the slick was projected to be about 100 miles from the northern edge of the Loop Current. Friday afternoon, it was about 40 miles. That distance is likely to increase as National Weather Service forecasters project that winds will blow from the east and southeast for much of the remainder of the week in the northern Gulf.
There are no impacts forecast for the next 72 hours to any part of the state of Florida and likely much longer for the Keys. State officials continue to encourage travel to all of Florida.
On the Sunday edition of CBS's "Face the Nation," Admiral Thad Allen, commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard who is in charge of the government’s response said officials at the preset time think there is a low chance of the oil reaching the Loop Current.
“That (Loop Current) is significantly south of the southern edge of the spill right now,” said Allen. “It does not appear to be a threat right now."
Still, until leaks are plugged, officials must continue to closely monitor and plan strategic responses for any possible oil landings in Florida including the Keys.
A giant concrete-and-steel containment box that was lowered at the end of last week developed problems when an icy slush formed inside and thwarted plans to funnel the oil to a surface tanker. According to the Associated Press, BP is now examining several other options to stop leaks including trying a smaller containment box and injecting debris including shredded rubber into the well as a stopper. The challenge with all proposed solutions is that they have never been tried in 5,000 feet of water.
The Monroe County Commission has scheduled a special workshop focusing on any needed preparations for the oil spill for Tuesday, May 11, to begin at 1 p.m. at the Murray Nelson Government Center situated at 10250 Overseas Highway, mile marker 102.5 bayside in Key Largo. The commission is to hear from administrator Roman Gastesi, representatives from Monroe County Emergency Management, Department of Environmental Protection and NOAA’s Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. The meeting is open to the public.
The Monroe County tourism council continues to update its http://www.fla-keys.com website with information regarding the spill and its relationship to the Keys. On the website are NOAA forecast tracking maps, a map showing the spill site in relation to the Keys, links to area Webcams and more.
TDC social media sites include:
http://www.keysvoices.com • http://twitter.com/thefloridakeys • http://www.facebook.com/floridakeysandkeywest
Spill-related websites, primarily focusing on affected areas, include:
http://www.deepwaterhorizonresponse.com • http://www.noaa.gov
News and Information From the Monroe County Tourist Development Council
Distance Between Loop Current and Oil Slick Increases
Winds in the northern Gulf of Mexico are helping to keep the oil slick, emanating from the Transocean/BP spill, away from the Loop Current as well as other coastal regions of Florida.
According to official estimates, as of Monday morning the southern edge of the slick was projected to be about 100 miles from the northern edge of the Loop Current. Friday afternoon, it was about 40 miles. That distance is likely to increase as National Weather Service forecasters project that winds will blow from the east and southeast for much of the remainder of the week in the northern Gulf.
There are no impacts forecast for the next 72 hours to any part of the state of Florida and likely much longer for the Keys. State officials continue to encourage travel to all of Florida.
On the Sunday edition of CBS's "Face the Nation," Admiral Thad Allen, commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard who is in charge of the government’s response said officials at the preset time think there is a low chance of the oil reaching the Loop Current.
“That (Loop Current) is significantly south of the southern edge of the spill right now,” said Allen. “It does not appear to be a threat right now."
Still, until leaks are plugged, officials must continue to closely monitor and plan strategic responses for any possible oil landings in Florida including the Keys.
A giant concrete-and-steel containment box that was lowered at the end of last week developed problems when an icy slush formed inside and thwarted plans to funnel the oil to a surface tanker. According to the Associated Press, BP is now examining several other options to stop leaks including trying a smaller containment box and injecting debris including shredded rubber into the well as a stopper. The challenge with all proposed solutions is that they have never been tried in 5,000 feet of water.
The Monroe County Commission has scheduled a special workshop focusing on any needed preparations for the oil spill for Tuesday, May 11, to begin at 1 p.m. at the Murray Nelson Government Center situated at 10250 Overseas Highway, mile marker 102.5 bayside in Key Largo. The commission is to hear from administrator Roman Gastesi, representatives from Monroe County Emergency Management, Department of Environmental Protection and NOAA’s Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. The meeting is open to the public.
The Monroe County tourism council continues to update its http://www.fla-keys.com website with information regarding the spill and its relationship to the Keys. On the website are NOAA forecast tracking maps, a map showing the spill site in relation to the Keys, links to area Webcams and more.
TDC social media sites include:
http://www.keysvoices.com • http://twitter.com/thefloridakeys • http://www.facebook.com/floridakeysandkeywest
Spill-related websites, primarily focusing on affected areas, include:
http://www.deepwaterhorizonresponse.com • http://www.noaa.gov
Oil Still North of Loop Current
KEYS TOURISM ADVISORY 6B May 7, 2010 • 5 PM EDT
News and Information From the Monroe County Tourist Development Council
Oil Still North of Loop Current
Local, state and federal officials continue to assure that oil from the Transocean/BP spill is positioned well north of the Loop Current and there are no impacts projected for the next 72 hours to any part of the state of Florida and likely longer for the Keys
Significant speculation and rumors continue to permeate various communications’ channels regarding the likelihood of oiling entering the Loop Current and making its way down to the Keys.
The latest National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration forecast trajectory model for Sunday, May 9, does show the slick pushing slightly to the south in the northern Gulf of Mexico, likely from winds that day forecast to blow from the north until Monday, when a predominantly southeastern flow is projected to return. The southern edge of the slick was positioned about 40 miles north of the Loop Current Friday afternoon, officials said Friday afternoon.
At least one ocean expert, Eric Chassignet, director of the Center for Ocean Atmospheric Prediction Studies at Florida State University, believes during the next few days the Loop Current will migrate further south, increasing the distance between it and the oil slick. FSU is hosting an Oil Spill Academic Task Force’s website at http://oilspill.fsu.edu compiling resources of Florida's universities with numerous models and information related to projected movements of the oil spill. Chassignet’s animated model is at http://oilspill.fsu.edu/model_output/home.html.
Since there is no expert agreement regarding long-range oil movements, local, state and federal officials continue strategic planning to attack any possible oil landings in Florida including the Keys. Although, a spill of this magnitude has never been foreseen, comprehensive plans are being adapted by officials to fight the spill, if needed. Those plans, which are public documents, are available at:
The U.S. Coast Guard Florida Keys Area Contingency Plan (725-page document)
http://ocean.floridamarine.org/ACP/KWACP/Documents/PDF/ACP/Complete%20Volume%20I.pdf
NOAA's Office of Response and Restoration's Oil Spills in Coral Reefs: Planning and Response Considerations
http://response.restoration.noaa.gov/book_shelf/70_coral_full_report.pdf
Sensitivity of Coastal Environments and Wildlife to Spilled Oil South Florida Atlas (Dry Tortugas to Boca Raton)
http://ocean.floridamarine.org/ACP/KWACP/Documents/PDF/ESI/SFlorida/LOWRES/S_FL05.PDF
Friday afternoon, the Associated Press reported a giant concrete-and-steel containment box was lowered to about 200 feet above one of two remaining leaks. The apparatus is designed to collect as much as 85 percent of the leaking oil and funnel it up to a tanker. The structure, which has never before been deployed in deep water, could be operational by Sunday or Monday, according to the AP.
The Monroe County tourism council continues to update its http://www.fla-keys.com website with information regarding the spill and its relationship to the Keys. On the website are NOAA forecast tracking maps, a map showing the spill site in relation to the Keys, links to area webcams and more.
TDC social media sites include:
http://www.keysvoices.com • http://twitter.com/thefloridakeys http://www.facebook.com/floridakeysandkeywest
Spill-related websites, primarily focusing on affected areas, include:
http://www.deepwaterhorizonresponse.com • http://www.noaa.gov
News and Information From the Monroe County Tourist Development Council
Oil Still North of Loop Current
Local, state and federal officials continue to assure that oil from the Transocean/BP spill is positioned well north of the Loop Current and there are no impacts projected for the next 72 hours to any part of the state of Florida and likely longer for the Keys
Significant speculation and rumors continue to permeate various communications’ channels regarding the likelihood of oiling entering the Loop Current and making its way down to the Keys.
The latest National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration forecast trajectory model for Sunday, May 9, does show the slick pushing slightly to the south in the northern Gulf of Mexico, likely from winds that day forecast to blow from the north until Monday, when a predominantly southeastern flow is projected to return. The southern edge of the slick was positioned about 40 miles north of the Loop Current Friday afternoon, officials said Friday afternoon.
At least one ocean expert, Eric Chassignet, director of the Center for Ocean Atmospheric Prediction Studies at Florida State University, believes during the next few days the Loop Current will migrate further south, increasing the distance between it and the oil slick. FSU is hosting an Oil Spill Academic Task Force’s website at http://oilspill.fsu.edu compiling resources of Florida's universities with numerous models and information related to projected movements of the oil spill. Chassignet’s animated model is at http://oilspill.fsu.edu/model_output/home.html.
Since there is no expert agreement regarding long-range oil movements, local, state and federal officials continue strategic planning to attack any possible oil landings in Florida including the Keys. Although, a spill of this magnitude has never been foreseen, comprehensive plans are being adapted by officials to fight the spill, if needed. Those plans, which are public documents, are available at:
The U.S. Coast Guard Florida Keys Area Contingency Plan (725-page document)
http://ocean.floridamarine.org/ACP/KWACP/Documents/PDF/ACP/Complete%20Volume%20I.pdf
NOAA's Office of Response and Restoration's Oil Spills in Coral Reefs: Planning and Response Considerations
http://response.restoration.noaa.gov/book_shelf/70_coral_full_report.pdf
Sensitivity of Coastal Environments and Wildlife to Spilled Oil South Florida Atlas (Dry Tortugas to Boca Raton)
http://ocean.floridamarine.org/ACP/KWACP/Documents/PDF/ESI/SFlorida/LOWRES/S_FL05.PDF
Friday afternoon, the Associated Press reported a giant concrete-and-steel containment box was lowered to about 200 feet above one of two remaining leaks. The apparatus is designed to collect as much as 85 percent of the leaking oil and funnel it up to a tanker. The structure, which has never before been deployed in deep water, could be operational by Sunday or Monday, according to the AP.
The Monroe County tourism council continues to update its http://www.fla-keys.com website with information regarding the spill and its relationship to the Keys. On the website are NOAA forecast tracking maps, a map showing the spill site in relation to the Keys, links to area webcams and more.
TDC social media sites include:
http://www.keysvoices.com • http://twitter.com/thefloridakeys http://www.facebook.com/floridakeysandkeywest
Spill-related websites, primarily focusing on affected areas, include:
http://www.deepwaterhorizonresponse.com • http://www.noaa.gov
Oil Slick Still Positioned North of Loop Current
KEYS TOURISM ADVISORY 3
May 3, 2010 • 4:30 PM EDT
News and Information From the Monroe County Tourist Development Council
OIL SLICK STILL POSITIONED NORTH OF LOOP CURRENT
Officials with the United States Coast Guard, Monroe County Emergency Management and NOAA’s Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary continue to closely monitor events in the northern Gulf of Mexico related to the BP/Transocean Deepwater Horizon explosion and subsequent oil spill.
Current NOAA’s 72-hour trajectory forecasts continue to show the slick remaining north of the Loop Current, a clockwise current that carries water from the Yucatan Channel into the Gulf of Mexico, then back down the Florida coast, past the Dry Tortugas and exiting into the Gulf Stream.
However, several news sources are likely to report later today a University of Miami oceanographer’s prediction that the oil slick will permeate the Keys by this weekend. Sanctuary officials dispute this timing based on current NOAA forecast models. NOAA is the official agency providing scientific forecasting and data for the mitigation effort.
Sanctuary and local U.S. Coast Guard officials continue to advise Keys residents and visitors to seek information from official Web sites including:
http://www.deepwaterhorizonresponse.com
http://www.noaa.gov/
Any other information or projections are speculative, said officials.
Officials said there simply is not enough experience with this kind of event to accurately project when and if the Keys will be impacted and what kind of impacts the area would experience if the oil migrates south.
On Sunday, NOAA issued an order restricting fishing for a minimum of 10 days in federal waters most affected by the oil spill, between Louisiana state waters at the mouth of the Mississippi River to waters off Florida’s Pensacola Bay. No other areas of Florida, including the Keys, are under the order at the current time. There are also no current advisories or restrictions on engaging in other watersports in the Keys or other parts of Florida.
The Coast Guard is meeting with various government stakeholders in Key West Tuesday to custom tailor their oil mitigation plan in the event the slick migrates to the south.
The Monroe County Tourist Development Council’s staff and agencies staged a conference call earlier today to discuss different scenarios and to plan future strategies.
The Monroe County Commission is planning a special meeting Tuesday, May 11, at 1 p.m. at the Murray Nelson Government Center to discuss the situation.
May 3, 2010 • 4:30 PM EDT
News and Information From the Monroe County Tourist Development Council
OIL SLICK STILL POSITIONED NORTH OF LOOP CURRENT
Officials with the United States Coast Guard, Monroe County Emergency Management and NOAA’s Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary continue to closely monitor events in the northern Gulf of Mexico related to the BP/Transocean Deepwater Horizon explosion and subsequent oil spill.
Current NOAA’s 72-hour trajectory forecasts continue to show the slick remaining north of the Loop Current, a clockwise current that carries water from the Yucatan Channel into the Gulf of Mexico, then back down the Florida coast, past the Dry Tortugas and exiting into the Gulf Stream.
However, several news sources are likely to report later today a University of Miami oceanographer’s prediction that the oil slick will permeate the Keys by this weekend. Sanctuary officials dispute this timing based on current NOAA forecast models. NOAA is the official agency providing scientific forecasting and data for the mitigation effort.
Sanctuary and local U.S. Coast Guard officials continue to advise Keys residents and visitors to seek information from official Web sites including:
http://www.deepwaterhorizonresponse.com
http://www.noaa.gov/
Any other information or projections are speculative, said officials.
Officials said there simply is not enough experience with this kind of event to accurately project when and if the Keys will be impacted and what kind of impacts the area would experience if the oil migrates south.
On Sunday, NOAA issued an order restricting fishing for a minimum of 10 days in federal waters most affected by the oil spill, between Louisiana state waters at the mouth of the Mississippi River to waters off Florida’s Pensacola Bay. No other areas of Florida, including the Keys, are under the order at the current time. There are also no current advisories or restrictions on engaging in other watersports in the Keys or other parts of Florida.
The Coast Guard is meeting with various government stakeholders in Key West Tuesday to custom tailor their oil mitigation plan in the event the slick migrates to the south.
The Monroe County Tourist Development Council’s staff and agencies staged a conference call earlier today to discuss different scenarios and to plan future strategies.
The Monroe County Commission is planning a special meeting Tuesday, May 11, at 1 p.m. at the Murray Nelson Government Center to discuss the situation.
Gulf Oil Spill Generating Media Coverage Regarding Concerns
KEYS TOURISM ADVISORY 1B April 28, 2010 • 11:15 PM EDT
News and Information From the Monroe County Tourist Development Council
Media coverage of last week’s BP/Transocean Deepwater Horizon oil drilling platform explosion and subsequent oil leaks in the Gulf of Mexico continues to focus on efforts to stop the leaks, but now has turned to potential impacts on Florida’s coastal areas and the Florida Keys.
Quoting oceanographers, several news organizations have included in their coverage the potential for oil to move with currents and – depending on the news source – either “possibly” or “likely” affecting the Keys.
However, officials with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration said Wednesday the Keys are not within the projected impact area in their near-term forecast models. And NOAA forecast models, prepared through Friday, (http://www.deepwaterhorizonresponse.com/go/doc/2931/533387/) show the oil slick moving to the north. Officials said some of the oil may reach portions of the Louisiana coast Friday evening. NOAA is the official agency providing scientific forecasting and data for the mitigation effort.
Officials at NOAA’s Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary are closely monitoring the situation and assessing resources if a response to an oil threat is required for the Keys.
A controlled burn of a portion of the slick was conducted Wednesday afternoon in an effort to remove a portion of the oil from open waters. Other tactics being employed to remove oil include skimming and the application of chemical dispersants.
Plans are being made to deploy resources to assist in cleanup of Gulf coastal areas likely to be affected.
At a news conference late Wednesday night, officials said a third leak was detected and that BP is employing all resources to plug the leaks. Coast Guard Rear Adm. Mary Landry said that 5,000 barrels a day is now what is estimated to be leaking and said the Department of Defense is poised to become involved in mitigation efforts.
Other planned tactics for leak control include a drilling ship slated to arrive on site Friday that is to begin boring a relief well. Another is the development of a subsea containment chamber to be placed over the leak to collect oil before it floats to the surface. However, it will require two to four weeks for that containment chamber to be fabricated and installed.
Official updated information, assembled by the joint response effort, is available at:
http://www.deepwaterhorizonresponse.com
http://www.noaa.gov
News and Information From the Monroe County Tourist Development Council
Media coverage of last week’s BP/Transocean Deepwater Horizon oil drilling platform explosion and subsequent oil leaks in the Gulf of Mexico continues to focus on efforts to stop the leaks, but now has turned to potential impacts on Florida’s coastal areas and the Florida Keys.
Quoting oceanographers, several news organizations have included in their coverage the potential for oil to move with currents and – depending on the news source – either “possibly” or “likely” affecting the Keys.
However, officials with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration said Wednesday the Keys are not within the projected impact area in their near-term forecast models. And NOAA forecast models, prepared through Friday, (http://www.deepwaterhorizonresponse.com/go/doc/2931/533387/) show the oil slick moving to the north. Officials said some of the oil may reach portions of the Louisiana coast Friday evening. NOAA is the official agency providing scientific forecasting and data for the mitigation effort.
Officials at NOAA’s Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary are closely monitoring the situation and assessing resources if a response to an oil threat is required for the Keys.
A controlled burn of a portion of the slick was conducted Wednesday afternoon in an effort to remove a portion of the oil from open waters. Other tactics being employed to remove oil include skimming and the application of chemical dispersants.
Plans are being made to deploy resources to assist in cleanup of Gulf coastal areas likely to be affected.
At a news conference late Wednesday night, officials said a third leak was detected and that BP is employing all resources to plug the leaks. Coast Guard Rear Adm. Mary Landry said that 5,000 barrels a day is now what is estimated to be leaking and said the Department of Defense is poised to become involved in mitigation efforts.
Other planned tactics for leak control include a drilling ship slated to arrive on site Friday that is to begin boring a relief well. Another is the development of a subsea containment chamber to be placed over the leak to collect oil before it floats to the surface. However, it will require two to four weeks for that containment chamber to be fabricated and installed.
Official updated information, assembled by the joint response effort, is available at:
http://www.deepwaterhorizonresponse.com
http://www.noaa.gov
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