Strong Odor of Gas Hits At Least 5 Counties Surrounding Whiting BP
On the afternoon of January 18, 2024, BP’s Whiting refinery experienced a leak from a storage tank at the refinery’s tank fields, according to a BP spokesman. As of early January 19, the leak was stopped and contained within the tank confinement area. Emergency response and operations crews immediately began cleanup efforts.
Notifications were made to required local and state regulatory entities, BP stated. The refinery continues to operate normally.
The unplanned flaring reported was weather related and separate according to a statement issued by BP.
“We are aware that some in the surrounding communities may be experiencing odors while cleanup work at the tank confinement area (Tank 622) is taking place,” BP said. Operation crews are working around the clock to rapidly clean up the impacted area and are undertaking additional measures to try to mitigate the odors as they continue cleanup efforts.
“Both stationary and mobile air monitoring equipment are still deployed and will continue until contaminated soil and gravel in the containment area has been removed.”
There have been no injuries reported and safety remains their highest priority.
Sources close this incident are reporting the leak is possibly Benzene. Benzene is a known carcinogen that is highly toxic and volatile when exposed to air. Another source is reporting the leak to be “dirty fuel.” We believe the tank contained a heavy diesel fuel commonly used in heavy equipment.
This leak has triggered dozens of fire department responses in the Chicago suburbs as well as Northwest Indiana for people thinking natural gas is leaking from their homes. Numerous people are also reporting headaches from the smell the last 36 hours.
