OR&R Participates in Hawaiian Electric Worst-Case Oil Spill Exercise
AUGUST 19, 2019 — On August 9 the Office of Response and Restoration’s Emergency Response Division participated in a Hawaiian Electric Company worst-case oil spill exercise held in Honolulu, Hawaii.
Hawaiian Electric Companies provide electricity for 95% of residents in the State of Hawaii on the islands of Oahu, Maui, Molokai, Lanai, and Hawaii Island.
The exercise simulated response to the release of over 1000 barrels of fuel oil #6 from the pipeline between Barber’s Point and the Hawaiian Electric Kahe Generating Station on Oahu. The spill scenario included impacts to Ko Olina Lagoons, where several tourist resorts are located, and Kalaeloa Harbor. NOAA ERD provided trajectory forecast support and participated in planning wildlife response and shoreline cleanup assessment technique (“SCAT”) surveys. In addition to Hawaiian Electric and industry representatives, responders from U.S. Coast Guard Sector Honolulu and the State of Hawaii Hazard Evaluation and Emergency Response Office also participated in the exercise.
For more information, contact Ruth.Yender@noaa.gov.