A Panamanian-flagged cargo ship unexpectedly sank in waters south of Phuket, Thailand, causing a leak of 4,200 gallons of diesel fuel and 100–200 gallons of lubricating oil, posing a severe threat to the local marine environment. On-site monitoring revealed the spill has formed an oil slick measuring 4.5 miles long and 1 mile wide, drifting westward and directly threatening coral reefs and marine life within the affected waters. Should the slick reach coastal areas via ocean currents and wind patterns, it would further contaminate beaches and coastal ecosystems, impacting local ecology and tourism.
Leave a Reply