A fuel spill spanning between 1.5 to 2 kilometers has prompted the closure of l’Arbre del Gos and El Saler beaches, located south of Valencia and adjacent to L’Albufera Natural Park. The Valencia City Council and the Generalitat Valenciana confirmed the implementation of red flag warnings in these coastal areas.

Emergency Response and Coordination

Upon alert of hydrocarbon presence at El Saler beach, emergency protocols under the Territorial Emergency Plan were immediately activated. This initiative includes continuous monitoring of the spill and coordination with Salvamento Marítimo (Maritime Rescue) to manage the impact.

Authorities from various departments are working jointly with national agencies and local associations to address the situation effectively. Drone units from the fire department are conducting aerial assessments, while local police patrol the beaches under red flag status.

Environmental Impact Assessment and Cleanup Efforts

Water samples have been collected for analysis to determine the type and concentration of the hydrocarbons involved. The investigation into the spill’s origin, led by the State Coastal Authority in collaboration with the Generalitat Valenciana, is currently underway.

In response to the incident, the regional government has mobilized resources for immediate cleanup operations. The Secretary of Emergencies has expedited Tragsa’s deployment to begin cleanup efforts at El Saler beach, now closed under local government orders.

Government Statements and Public Assurance

Salomé Pradas, Councillor of Justice and Interior, addressed the press emphasizing swift governmental response upon activation of the Territorial Emergency Plan Level 1. ‘We are acting promptly and assure citizens that we are closely monitoring the spill’s potential impacts,’ stated Pradas.

She further highlighted the involvement of three regional departments—Agriculture and Water, Environment, and Interior—highlighting their coordinated efforts in managing the crisis. The Councillor urged residents and visitors to remain calm and avoid the affected areas until further notice.

Spanish authorities shut three beaches after oil washed up on the Mediterranean coast. Cleaning workers in protective suits were seen cleaning up the oil at El Saler beach in the Albufera Natural Park, in Valencia https://t.co/53x7eVHhdQ pic.twitter.com/U0YJLsokkG

— Reuters (@Reuters) July 17, 2024

Current Status and Future Actions

As cleanup operations continue at El Saler beach, Juan Carlos Caballero, Councilor for Civil Protection of Valencia City Council, announced a complete closure of the beach to facilitate uninterrupted cleanup efforts. The timing of the beach reopening remains uncertain pending clearance from emergency technicians.

The Maritime Captaincy of Valencia has stated that they are keeping National Maritime Plan Level 1 in place, even though they have not found any new contamination signs at sea. They added that as the pollutant is spread out thinly, cleaning it up at sea isn’t feasible.

Efforts to manage and mitigate the environmental impact of the spill are ongoing, with continuous updates expected as investigations progress. Authorities remain vigilant in their efforts to safeguard public health and coastal ecosystems during this environmental incident.

As investigations into the oil spill’s cause in Valencia continue, updates regarding cleanup progress and beach reopening will be provided in due course.

Main image: X/@GreenerWeek

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