Gulf of San Matías Faces Oil Spill Threat: Winter and Summer Scenarios Modelled
The Gulf of San Matías in Argentina, a haven for diverse marine life, faces potential threats from oil spills. The NOAA's GNOME tool has modelled spill trajectories, revealing grim scenarios for both winter and summer seasons.
Winter spills could first hit the 'Caleta de los Loros' Reserve, with hydrocarbons reaching the coast within 6-8 days. The Gulf, home to significant colonies of Magellanic penguins, southern elephant seals, and southern right whales, would be severely impacted. Summer spills, meanwhile, would affect the National Park and Natural Reserve Islote Lobos within just 12 hours.
An environmental impact study has warned of these dangers, specifically for the Vaca Muerta Oil Sur (VMOS) pipeline and terminal project. The Patagonian Sea Forum and the Prefecture have both raised alarms about potential oil spills in the region. These spills could lead to a socio-ecological disaster, contaminating birds and marine mammals, and putting local communities in crisis. The impact on tourism and the local food chain would be substantial.
The Gulf of San Matías, a vital ecosystem, is at risk from potential oil spills. Authorities and environmental groups are urging caution and preparedness to mitigate the devastating consequences that such an event could have on the region's wildlife and communities.
