Benzene Discharge from Barge into Neches River; Port Neches, Texas

X3WM+HQ Port Neches, TX, USA | 2025-Aug-14

Initial Notification: On August 14, 2025, the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) received a report that a barge carrying 4,000 barrels of benzene was struck by another barge and released benzene into the waters in the barge fleeting area, along the Neches River near the Port of Neches. The release is believed to be from the starboard tank above the water line. Response organizations and personnel are on-scene as of 0600 and working to secure the source and contain the spill. The Federal On-Scene Coordinator (FOSC) has closed the river to traffic. USCG Port Arthur is requesting hazard analysis and fate and effects. The NOAA Scientific Support Coordinator passed initial recommendations of 1/2 mile isolation distance and air monitoring and response recommendations. Support continues.