A North Slope exploration well operated by Repsol E&P USA Inc. released some 6,600 gallons of oil and other fluids after a hose ruptured during recent flow back operations.

As Repsol contractor Weatherford International was conducting a flow back test on the Qugruk No. 6 well early this morning, a hose connecting the well to a storage tank ruptured, spraying crude oil, diesel, water and produced fluids onto the tundra, according to the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation. The operator shut-in the well, but additional products spilled as fluids from the storage tank drained back through the hose.

The majority of the spilled products stayed within a secondary containment area, but Repsol reported a “light to moderate mist” over some 0.63 acres of snow-covered tundra, according to the DEC. There have been no reported impacts to wildlife, the DEC said.

Repsol removed most of the spill products from the secondary containment area using on-site vacuum equipment and response crews continue to work around the clock to complete the job, according to the DEC. Additionally, Repsol is preparing a plan for cleaning up the contaminated snow from vegetated areas of the surrounding tundra.

—Eric Lidji

See story in April 14 edition, available Friday, April 12 at 11 a.m. at www.PetroleumNews.com