Mystery Spill Hampton Roads; Port of Hampton Roads, Norfolk, Virginia

Port of Hampton Roads, Norfolk, Virginia | 1993-Jun-18

Initial Notification: On Friday, June 18, 1993, a mystery oil spill was reported trailing from the Port of Hampton Roads in the Elizabeth River past the Harbor Tunnel and into the Chesapeake Bay. The oil was reported to be a mixture of heavy oils and oil and water emulsions that looked like bilge slops. The hot summer weather caused the oil to immediately impact numerous recreational vessels moored in the Port of Hampton Roads. While widespread, the spill was not considered major, either in volume or in environmental impact. Boat owners were advised that they would be eligible for reimbursement of cleaning costs through the Oil Spill Liability Trust Fund. The USCG's contractor, International Marine Services of Hampton Roads completed on-the-water cleanup of the oil by June 20, 1993. USCG district 5. Keyword: none.