On Tuesday night, a vessel collided with Pier 32 at the Port of Galveston, resulting in an oil spill. oil spill. The U.S. Coast Guard received the alert around 21:50 and immediately activated its response protocols. The source of the discharge was quickly controlled, although the exact amount of the substance spilled is still under investigation.
Institutional coordination in response to the oil spill
The response has been led by the Coast Guard Sector Houston-Galveston, in conjunction with the Texas General Land Office and ForestWave Navigation BV, the responsible party. These entities have deployed resources and specialized personnel to contain the leak and assess the potential damage to the port area.
As a preventive action, the Galveston Galveston Channel from Gulf Copper to the Pelican Island Bridge. This decision seeks to prevent the expansion of oil to other areas of the coastline and to facilitate cleanup efforts. Commercial navigation along this stretch remains suspended until further notice.
Environmental assessment and safety
The air quality and water conditions are being constantly monitored, and no impacts on wildlife have been detected and no injuries have been reported. Technical teams specialized in containment and cleanup remain on site executing coordinated actions.
Authorities have set up the National Response Center for captains and mariners to report the presence of oily debris in the area. The number available is 800-424-8802.
An investigation is ongoing to clarify the exact circumstances that led to the vessel’s impact with the quay. In the meantime, the priority remains the mitigation of the spill and the protection of the marine environment.
Source and photo: United States Coast Guard
