Overview of the Spill

Suncor Energy has reported a significant oil spill affecting the St. Clair River, close to Sarnia’s bustling St. Clair Parkway. The alert was issued on Thursday afternoon around 1:40 PM, raising immediate concerns among local residents.

Nature of the Spill

The spill was confirmed to be releasing hydrocarbons, which can pose serious risks to both the environment and public safety. Suncor has assured that they are prioritizing the safety of their employees and community members while working diligently to mitigate the situation.

Local Warnings and Precautions

Residents living near the Suncor dock will likely notice an unusual odor in the air, prompting immediate warnings from local authorities. St. Clair Township alerted the public stating, “Until further notice, DO NOT USE water from the St. Clair River and avoid taking leisure crafts onto the river to prevent skin contact.”

Emergency Response

A swift response has been initiated, with Shell’s Sarnia Manufacturing Centre stepping in to provide emergency aid and resources. This includes spill response equipment, boats, and personnel to help reduce the impact of the spill.

Reassurances for Other Municipalities

Other municipalities have reassured their residents that their water systems are safe. The Town of Petrolia confirmed that its water supply remains unaffected by the spill, and the Walpole Island First Nation Council confirmed their tap water remains safe.

Current Status and Further Advisories

As of 4:06 PM, it was confirmed that the spill involved crude oil. St. Clair Township has reassured the public that their water distribution system remains safe for drinking and bathing. By 5:38 PM, Lambton Public Health issued a strict advisory urging residents to avoid using water from the St. Clair River.

Monitoring and Reporting

Suncor stated that all necessary regulatory agencies and local organizations have been notified, and they remain actively engaged with local partners to assess the shoreline and monitor air quality in the surrounding areas. No injuries have been reported so far.

Stay Informed

Community members are encouraged to stay informed through local public health advisories and Suncor’s communications as additional details and safety precautions will continue to be made available.

Conclusion

Authorities are working tirelessly to address this environmental concern and protect the community, and further updates will be provided as the situation evolves.