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Oil 'Rain' From Brandenburg Pipeline Rupture Triggers Major Cleanup Near Nature Reserve

Officials say soaked soil curbed infiltration, with testing now determining any harm to nearby streams and the fen.

Overview

  • The leak occurred during preparations for a simulated-rupture test on the RostockSchwedt line near Gramzow, and PCK reports both employees on site were uninjured as a suspected defective nozzle is investigated.
  • Authorities and dpa cited estimates ranging from about 250,000 to 350,000 liters after crude sprayed up to 20 meters high and fell for roughly six hours.
  • Around 100 firefighters, including PCK’s works brigade and THW, cordoned the site, pumped and vacuumed surface oil, and are preparing to remove contaminated topsoil and shoreline vegetation.
  • Oil entered the Mühlengraben drainage and could move toward the Randow, so outlets were sealed with booms and boards as sampling begins, including checks for benzene and other volatile hydrocarbons.
  • An initial population hazard warning was issued overnight, then downgraded and lifted by morning as responders reported no ongoing public risk under current weather conditions.