Unified Command Continues St. Simons Sound Incident Response: Update 4

Date: 9.15.19 Contact: Joint Information Center (912) 944-7122

Due to heavy weather and concern for crew safety, on-site operations involving the Golden Ray have been partially suspended. 

“Out of concern for the safety for our response crews we have made the decision to temporarily halt operations involving the Golden Ray and plan to resume as soon as it’s safe to. ” – Cmdr. Norm Witt, Federal On Scene Coordinator

PUBLIC HEALTH AND SAFETY

Specialists are monitoring air quality around the vessel and surrounding areas. No impacts on air quality have been detected to date. A water-sampling plan is currently being developed. Please monitor the Department of Public Health website to keep informed of any advisories that may be in effect. 

ENVIRONMENT

Pending safe weather – Response teams are canvassing the shoreline to identify

environmental impacts. If the public encounters oiled wildlife, they should report the sighting to the Tri-State Bird Rescue and Research Oil Spill Hotline (800) 261-0980.

Additionally, the command is developing a comprehensive plan to remove pollutants from the vessel.

ECONOMIC

Commercial traffic in the Port of Brunswick has resumed on a case by case basis. A claims number has been established (888) 850-8486 for those who have been affected by the incident.