Oil spill in Charleston Harbor
If you’ve noticed a strange sheen on the ocean water over the past several hours, the reason is an unknown oil spill on Tuesday in the mouth of Charleston Harbor which has washed on to several nearby beaches. Mariners have reported tar balls, emulsified petroleum products and a ubiquitous oil sheen on the water, particularly near Fort Moultrie, Morris Island, Sullivan’s Island and Folly Beach.
The Coast Guard has confirmed the reports and DHEC, the National Parks Service, DNR and South Carolina local municipalities have been notified. An environmental response company will conduct the clean-up operations and will be assisted by the Coast Guard.
At this time, the cause of the petroleum spill is still unidentified.
To report any significant sightings of spills along the beach or marsh areas, call the Coast Guard Sector Charleston at (843) 740-7090.
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