A recent leak in the Colonial Pipeline, a major source of fuel that runs through Alabama, is impacting a large portion of the Southeast economically since it was first reported in early September.
The situation first came to public attention when the breach in the line was reported on Sept. 9 by a CP employee who noticed a strong smell of fuel according to what the company reported. Roughly 336,000 gallons had spilled at the time of writing. However, the true amount of leakage is not known as Chuck Berry of the Environmental Protection Agency stated.
Due to the spill, gas prices have risen in many areas of the Southeast. Increases of about 5 cents in Georgia and up to 27 cents in some areas of Alabama, according to the American Automobile Association. Another factor caused by this spill is a general shortage of fuel, which is affecting prices
The pipeline is expected to be repaired completely and to restart in the coming days after a massive effort was undertaken to fix the leak, according to Colonial Pipeline’s spokesman, Steve Baker. This fix should lower gas prices and calm fear over fuel shortages.
Most people remember the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill of 2010, and the disastrous effects it had on businesses in Alabama’s gulf area as well as the negative impact on gas prices. Though the problem is expected to be resolved soon, it is not unreasonable for citizens of the surrounding areas to be worried, because fuel is one of the most valuable resources to individuals as well as the country in general.
By Nathan Howell