SoCalGas natural gas leaks prompts citizen action in a Los Angeles county, with the number of families being evacuated rising to 30.
SoCalGas natural gas leaks prompts citizen action in a Los Angeles county, with the number of families being evacuated rising to 30.
A leak from a natural gas storage field operated by SoCalGas is causing health problems for the residents of Porter Ranch. The 40-year-old pipe transporting gas has ruptured approximately one month ago, giving way to a massive gas leak.
The residents of Porter Ranch are intent on taking a stand during the county Board of Supervisors meeting. Among other requests, they want to see a full investigation on track for the massive gas leak, as well as for the root of problems to be identified and the situation to be mitigated. Public health officials, officials of the fire department and officials of the county’s planning department are also expected to take the floor during the meeting.
For the past month, more and more Porter Ranch residents have complained of symptoms such as severe headaches, nausea, dizziness and others. However, in face of these allegations, SoCalGas chose to state that the gas leak isn’t a health threat. According to the spokesperson for the Porter Ranch residents, the company
“has misled the public about the health risks”.
Still, 30 families have been evacuated and relocated due to the hazards an ongoing gas leak poses. To zero-in on the issue, the gas and oil regulatory agency for California has urged SoCalGas to present a consistent plan for capping the massive gas leak. Considering the company failed to come up with a plan, the AQMD announced that a notice of violation will be issued to the SoCalGas company.
At the same time, the California Air Resources Board has released on Monday a report stating that the methane emissions caused by the massive gas leak is disastrous for air quality in the region of San Fernando Valley. The methane emissions have amounted to one quarter of the methane emissions statewide since October 23rd until November 20th. California has approved a target of 40 percent emission reduction by 2030.
Overall, the massive gas leak is a public health threat, the odor released in the area is unbearable, while emissions are spiking. The massive gas leak is located 1,200 feet up in the Santa Susana Mountains.
Photo Credits: geograph.org.uk
