Cap on Oil Leak is Holding for Now, Tests Continue
BP is cautiously optimistic about the new cap on the leaking oil well in the Gulf of Mexico. The cap is containing
the oil, but more testing must be done to make sure it's working properly.
The Wall Street Journal reports:
The test, originally scheduled to last 48 hours, was extended on Saturday to allow for additional monitoring of the sea floor for signs of new leaks. But BP Chief Operating Officer Doug Suttles said in a teleconference that results so far have been encouraging. Pressure is building slowly, but the readings are lower than expected—a sign that the oil reservoir is partially depleted, Mr. Suttles said.
However, Adm. Allen's statement indicated that the lower-than-expected pressure readings are still a cause of concern. Adm. Allen acknowledged the possibility of reservoir depletion, but also said that the readings could be explained by potential leakage caused by damage to the well.
"While we are pleased that no oil is currently being released into the Gulf of Mexico and want to take all appropriate action to keep it that way, it is important that all decisions are driven by the science," said Adm. Allen. "Ultimately, we must ensure no irreversible damage is done which could cause uncontrolled leakage from numerous points on the sea floor."
So, it's looking good, but it could start leaking at any time. Meanwhile, the drilling on the relief well continues as fast as possible. The hope is to get it finished before hurricane season kicks in with a vengeance.
