EPA To Investigate Limetree Bay After Gas Release

ST. CROIX, USVI — The Environmental Protection Agency is launching an investigation into Limetree Bay operations, as reported by the Washington Post. The investigation was prompted by two operational issues in the last few weeks, the most recent being the release of noxious fumes that closed several schools and a vaccine center last week.

The Department of Health and the Department of Planning and Natural Resources (DPNR) identified high levels of hydrogen sulfide emitting from No. 8 flare header at the Limetree Bay Facility. Hydrogen sulfide, sometimes called "swamp gas" is highly flammable, toxic when inhaled and, well, pretty stinky. The closest comparison is rotten eggs.

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Limetree Bay released a statement confirming that there was "an operating upset in the sulfur processing part of the refinery" that released sulfer-containing gasses. However, they claim the gasses were safely burned and the smell was actually low levels of sulfur dioxide. Sulfur dioxide is also toxic at high concentrations.

Though no major injuries were reported, residents complained of nausea and eye-irritation.