James River Jet Fuel Spill a Threat to People and Waterways

A spill at a Huntington Ingalls facility in Newport News sent an estimated 4,722* gallons of jet fuel into the James River on Feb. 13 during refueling for an aircraft carrier.

Fuel odor and sheen were reported over a large area at the mouth of the James River in Newport News and Hampton. Huntington Ingalls and partners worked to contain the spilled fuel using booms, boats, and vacuum trucks.

Virginia’s Department of Environmental Quality has urged people to avoid parts of the river that smell like fuel. The odor and fumes can cause headaches, nausea, and other health problems.

The Chesapeake Bay Foundation (CBF) works closely with communities across Newport News and Hampton, from restoring oysters in the Hampton River to taking local students and leaders on the water for hands-on learning about waterways.

*This figure has been updated from an earlier estimate provided by DEQ.

Joe Wood, Virginia Senior Scientist at CBF, issued the following statement:

“This major fuel spill is a not only a threat to people, but also a danger to the health of the river. Jet Fuel is acutely toxic and can kill fish, crabs, and oysters and harm underwater grass beds. Fuel spills, even after they are cleaned up, can continue to disrupt wildlife communities for many years.

“We have already heard from watermen who have been directly affected by the incident, and we’re still learning more about the extent of this spill and how much it has impacted the river. Federal, state, and local officials must ensure that the spill is cleaned up quickly, thoroughly, and completely, and hold all parties involved accountable. We will continue to closely monitor the situation moving forward.”