Approximately 7,749 gallons of JP-5 fuel spilled into the James River on Feb. 13 during a transfer operation at Huntington Ingalls Industries’ Newport News Shipbuilding division, Newport News, Va.
The fuel was being transferred from a Navy barge to the future USS John F. Kennedy (CVN 79) when the spill was identified around 1 p.m. ET.
In a statement, the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) said early estimates significantly understated the volume. “Initial estimates placed the release at approximately 50 gallons; however, follow-up investigations and fuel tank measurements later determined the total volume discharged to be 7,749 gallons.”
According to DEQ, “Odors and surface sheens were reported across portions of Newport News and Hampton, prompting coordinated on-water investigation by DEQ, the Virginia Department of Emergency Management (VDEM), the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG), and fire departments from the cities of Newport News and Hampton.”
The shipyard said the transfer was secured and cleanup efforts were initiated immediately. DEQ confirmed that response operations were activated by the responsible party. “The responsible party activated an oil spill response company to begin oil containment and recovery operations, including deploying containment boom, conducting boat-based recovery, and using a vacuum truck to remove captured product. Favorable tides and winds assisted in containing the release, and a USCG drone overflight confirmed the effectiveness of response actions. Most recoverable product remains concentrated near the spill area.”
The U.S. Coast Guard Sector Virginia is continuing to monitor the situation. DEQ stated, “Pollution Assessment teams from Coast Guard Sector Virginia, supported by Coast Guard Station Portsmouth boat crews and Unmanned Aircraft Systems, are blanketing the area via land, air, and water to provide real-time tracking of the sheen and ensure rapid response to any shifting conditions.”
City officials in Newport News said the cause of the spill remains under investigation.
The Virginia Department of Health said there is no impact to local drinking or tap water supplies. While some residents may notice a strong odor and individuals with respiratory conditions could experience headaches or nausea, officials said there is no significant health risk. Residents and boaters were advised to avoid areas of the river where a visible sheen or strong odor is present.
