On April 20, 2010, a massive explosion occurred on a U.S. oil rig in the Gulf of Mexico, killing eleven people and injuring seventeen more. Three days later, it was found that the rig was not only damaged, but leaking oil into the waters of the Gulf. The oil poses a great threat to wildlife, as many as 400 different species, along the coastal regions of Louisiana, Alabama, Florida, and Mississippi.
From placing hay and hair on the spill to a containment dome, an absolute solution to the oil spill has yet to be initiated. One attempt was to put a containment dome about a mile under the ocean, atop the hole. Eventually, this endeavor failed due to leakage. As of day one hundred and seven, the hole in the rig is temporarily blocked. However, the ultimate resolution to the spill is believed to be a relief well. The scientists working on the new well are working tediously and are extremely close to finishing it.
The effects of the spill have been felt all around the gulf coast ranging from damaging delicate ecosystems to abusing the fishing industry. Millions of birds, fish, frogs, and other creatures have either been affected or killed by the oil. In response, the fishing industry has suffered a great economic loss. Those who depend upon fishing for revenue cannot fish in or around the spill due to cleaning efforts. Numerous fishermen have lost jobs, homes, and money due to the disaster. The effects in this region will be long-lasting.
As of August 1, 2010, the oil spill has been temporarily contained. Many people have been working diligently on cleaning the coastal environments. The United States will suffer the consequences of the national disaster for many years to come.
