Coast Guard investigates oil spill threats on South Florida beaches and waterways
South Florida is facing a double environmental crisis as tar balls wash ashore from Palm Beach to Broward County, while oil slicks in the Miami River raise fresh concerns about pollution from cargo vessels.
On Saturday, beachgoers along the Fort Lauderdale shoreline were met with clumps of oily tar, prompting partial beach closures and an urgent investigation by the U.S. Coast Guard. Meanwhile, Miami River residents and businesses have reported repeated oil slicks, with suspicions pointing to a Panama-registered cargo ship, the Bahamas Pearl.
Authorities are racing to determine the sources of these spills, as environmentalists warn of potential harm to marine life, water quality, and local businesses.
Fort Lauderdale Beach Closures and the Hunt for a Spill Source
The first signs of trouble appeared early Saturday morning when lifeguards at Fort Lauderdale Beach stepped into tar balls, described as semi-solid clumps of weathered oil mixed with debris.
“We feel it’s a criminal act to cause toxic materials to be released into the public domain,” said Fort Lauderdale Mayor Dean Trantalis, noting that a freighter or cruise ship may be responsible.
The Coast Guard launched an air and sea investigation from Palm Beach to Port Everglades but has yet to confirm the source. While swimming is restricted in some areas, beaches remain open for sunbathers.
Miami River faces oil pollution linked to cargo vessel
Just as the tar ball mystery unfolds, another crisis is brewing in the Miami River, where multiple oil slicks have been observed near 3300 NW N River Dr, Miami, FL.
Eyewitnesses have linked the pollution to the Bahamas Pearl, a cargo ship operated by Centauri Transport. Reports to the U.S. Coast Guard National Response Center prompted an environmental review, but no official cause has been confirmed.
The Miami River is vital for trade, tourism, and marine life, yet local fishermen have already reported dead fish and a strong petroleum odor, raising concerns about seafood safety and property values along the riverfront.
"The longer the pollution continues, the bigger the impact on Miami’s economy and environment," said a waterfront business owner.
Centauri Transport, which operates a shipping terminal in the area and is U.S. Coast Guard Certified, has issued a public statement addressing the concerns.
"We are a responsible company and take great pride in our facilities, employees and equipment. Should there be any concerns to be addressed, we will always be ready to respond with appropriate actions". - Frank J. Visconti CEO of Centauri Transport
Environmental response and how you can help
Authorities are monitoring both incidents and have deployed teams to assess contamination levels. Cleanup measures, including booms, skimmers, and dispersants, may be used to mitigate the damage.
Concerned residents are urged to report suspected pollution to the U.S. Coast Guard National Response Center at 800-242-8802.
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