Gov. Ferguson issues emergency proclamation on pipeline shutdown, fuel impacts SEA Airport
EVERETT, Wash. — Gov. Bob Ferguson has declared an emergency proclamation as a result of a shutdown of the Olympic Pipeline following a fuel leak near Everett.
On Wednesday, Ferguson announced the shutdown had disrupted jet fuel transportation to SEA (Seattle-Tacoma) International Airport. The proclamation ensures adequate fuel supplies can be delivered to SEA Airport while the Olympic Pipeline remains offline.
“We are in close communication with our state and federal partners,” Ferguson said. “This declaration will help the airport maintain its fuel supply while the pipeline is offline and limit disruptions to travelers.”
The Olympic Pipeline system, a crucial 400-mile network transporting refined petroleum products across the Pacific Northwest, has been temporarily shut down following a recent incident, BP Pipelines North America, Inc. (BP) confirmed Wednesday.
RELATED | Damage to Olympic Pipeline raises concern about SEA Airport fuel deliveries
The 16-inch pipeline, which had resumed operations early on Sunday after a successful leak test, was halted again on Monday afternoon, according to BP. This decision was made to investigate an increase in product observed at a collection point within the response site.
According to the Department of Ecology, “While doing cleanup, responders came across some additional product (which was reported to us as diesel). Out of caution, BP shut down the line.”
Response crews have started excavation of the pipelines to facilitate a thorough visual inspection, BP said. However, a timeline for the completion of repairs remains unavailable.
Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available, according to BP.
The recent release was initially reported after a sheen was discovered in a drainage ditch in a field. Responders have deployed boom and oil recovery equipment to contain and clean up the released product, though the exact amount of released and recovered product is still being assessed, according to BP.
The Olympic Pipeline, which runs from Whatcom County, Washington, to Portland, Oregon, plays a vital role in delivering gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel to key locations, including Seattle, SeaTac, Tacoma, and Vancouver, Washington, as well as Portland, Oregon.
In a statement, the Port of Seattle said they are aware of a continued disruption to the Olympic Pipeline that provides fuel around the region, including to SEA Airport.
Aircraft fueling is managed by the airlines, and there are no impacts to flights at this time. As the situation evolves, SEA operations is working closely with airline partners and Washington state departments on contingency plans.In addition, we’d note to travelers, as usual, they should continue to check with their airlines for the status of their specific flight.
