Oil released into the sea from a grounded vessel off Oman has created a pollution area covering approximately 390 square kilometers on the surface. The oil slick extends from northeast of the Hallaniyat Islands toward the mainland coast and is about 7 kilometers from shore at its closest point.
The spill is moving northeast under the influence of weather and sea conditions. Its movement, spread and potential environmental impacts are being monitored through satellite imagery, aircraft, maritime inspections and fieldwork.
Spill expected to travel 121 kilometers in 48 hours
Current modeling indicates that the oil pollution could travel approximately 121 kilometers within 48 hours. Omani authorities said work is continuing around the clock to track the spill's movement and environmental impacts.
The Environment Authority of Oman and the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology are coordinating with relevant institutions to respond to the incident and ensure the vessel's safety. Teams are conducting aerial surveillance by plane, while diving and field operations are also continuing.
Safe removal of oil cargo planned
Technical teams are continuing their inspections to determine the damage to the vessel's hull and the sources of the oil leak. The initial plan is to secure the vessel, safely remove its oil cargo and then take the vessel out of the sea.
Weather and sea conditions in the area where the vessel is located are complicating response efforts.