DOE Investigates Reports of Fuel Leak in Placencia Lagoon

The Department of Environment (DOE) says that it is investigating reports of a fuel odour and a thin, multicoloured sheen observed in the Placencia Lagoon area.

Late Saturday evening, residents of Placencia reported a strong smell of gas lingering in the area and an oily sheen appearing on the lagoon’s surface. Concerned by what they suspected might be a fuel leak, residents contacted the police and fire departments, pointing to a nearby gas station as a potential source.

“Last night the smell of gasoline at our house was overwhelming,” one resident shared. “It continued throughout the night and was still very strong this morning. The gas has completely contaminated our lagoon.”

According to DOE, the service station identified by residents has completed an internal review comparing fuel received to fuel sold, with no discrepancies found so far. Still, the DOE says a full inspection is underway.

Photos taken from behind the island show a thin, multicoloured sheen on the water, which the DOE says indicates refined fuel with high evaporation rates and low viscosity.

Officials are currently examining underground sumps and pressurising fuel lines to rule out leaks in the station’s pipeline system. “Thus far, no leaks have been detected,” the department noted. 

Still, additional checks are being conducted in surrounding areas to determine if another source may be responsible for the contamination.