A release of crude oil into the St. Clair River occurred around 1:00 p.m. today, Thursday March 27, according to a statement from Suncor, which has since identified and isolated the source of the spill.
“At approximately 1:00 p.m. today, as part of its regular monitoring, the Suncor Sarnia Refinery was alerted to a release of hydrocarbons,” the company said. “The source of the release has been identified and isolated. No injuries have been reported.”
Suncor deployed booms and vacuum equipment to contain the spill and is working with other organizations to support shoreline assessment and air monitoring in the area.
“We continue to work with local organizations on our response, who are assisting with shoreline assessment and air monitoring in the vicinity,” the company said. “All appropriate regulatory agencies and local community organizations have been notified.”
Shell’s Manufacturing Centre in Corunna confirmed it provided mutual aid under the BASES agreement, supplying emergency response equipment and personnel to assist in the cleanup.
In a public notice, St. Clair Township advised residents not to use water drawn directly from the river and to avoid recreational use of the water until further notice, to reduce the risk of skin contact with any residual oil.
Officials emphasized that the municipal drinking water system is not affected by the spill.
“St. Clair Township Water Distribution System is safe to drink,” the township stated. “The spill is in the St. Clair River and has no impact on the township drinking water.”
Members of the public may notice an odour near the Suncor dock and increased response activity on the river, including emergency boats and shoreline equipment.
“We continue to take all necessary steps to respond and the safety of our people, community members and the environment remains our top priority,” Suncor said.
Further updates will be shared as the response progresses.
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