Another pipeline leak: 4,200 barrels

A pipeline leak shut down the northbound lanes of FM 1788 Wednesday evening.

City of Midland Spokesperson Sara Higgins said the initial call came in just before 6 p.m. and the cause of the pipeline leak came from a trencher being used by Holly Energy in which the operator punctured a pipeline 10 inches in diameter.

Approximately 4,200 barrels leaked out of the pipeline but Holly Energy was able to recover around 1,000 barrels using vacuum trucks they had on scene, Higgins said. HAZMAT from the City of Midland, Midland County Sheriff’s Office, TxDOT, and Odessa Fire and Rescue were on scene to assist in containing the area.

Currently, Higgins continued, the section of pipeline that was damaged has been shut off and is draining but the company says they plan to begin repairing the pipeline tomorrow. Higgins said it could take anywhere from a number of days weeks for complete remediation.

The northbound lanes of 1788 were reopened around 9 p.m. and Higgins said they were closed as a precaution and that no one was ever in any immediate danger.

Crews remain on scene as the pipeline completes draining.

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