Community Corner

Gas Leak Contained at Rodeo Oil Refinery

Health advisory lowered after fumes from a sulfur-water tank lasted for two days.

By Bay City News Service

Contra Costa County hazardous materials officials said Sunday that a gas leak in a water tank at the ConocoPhillips oil refinery in Rodeo has been contained.

The leak in the 1.5-million gallon tank containing sulfur-water was first reported Friday morning at about 7 a.m., when a 35-foot rupture in the tank allowed sulfur-smelling gas to leak into the surrounding neighborhood, said Steve Morioka, assistant director of the county's hazardous materials program.

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At least 10 people reported nausea, throat irritation and respiratory symptoms due to the gas leak.

The leak was sealed off early Sunday morning, Morioka said, and a health advisory that was issued on Friday was lowered at about 8:30 a.m.

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The incident remains under investigation, and crews are continuing to monitor air quality in the area.


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