UPDATE: Residents of Newport Beach are now allowed to return home following a methane leak linked to an uncapped oil well. The city declared a local state of emergency on Wednesday due to the hazardous situation, prompting an evacuation order just a day later.
The leak originated from an uncapped oil well beneath a residence that had been evacuated months prior after crude oil began seeping through the home’s foundation. The property has since been red-tagged by city officials, who have confirmed ongoing monitoring of the situation.
City crews acted swiftly, utilizing vertical pipes to vent the volatile methane gas over the past two days. A supplemental ventilation system remains in place to manage any additional gas that may surface. John Pope, public information officer for Newport Beach, stated, “This type of situation requires a thorough approach. You would have to dig down, re-drill, take a look at what’s going on down there, and then figure out how to address it.”
Residents began returning home on Friday afternoon, relieved yet anxious about the unresolved issues concerning the oil well. The uncertainty surrounding the property’s safety has left many in the community on edge, as they await further assessments from city officials.
Authorities emphasize the importance of vigilance and report that it is ultimately up to the property owner to determine the next steps for remediation. The city remains committed to ensuring the safety of its residents while tackling this urgent environmental concern.
As this situation continues to develop, residents are encouraged to stay informed through official channels and local news updates. Further actions and decisions regarding the oil well and its implications for the neighborhood will be closely monitored.
Stay tuned for more updates as Newport Beach officials work to resolve this urgent crisis.
