"Operating Incident" Behind Noxious Gas Around Limetree Refinery

Only a few weeks after resuming production, Limetree Bay refinery is once again in hot water. Multiple schools on St. Croix closed on Friday after students and staff complained of a "noxious"smell coming from the refinery. A community vaccination center also closed.

In response, the Department of Planning and Natural Resources (DPNR) issued an advisory that people with respiratory ailments such as allergies, lung disease and asthma should consider staying indoors or relocating.

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Limetree Bay issued a statement on Friday stating that there was an "operating upset" that caused a strong odor in the vicinity of the refinery. The executive team issued an apology, confirmed that the problem was resolved, and promised to continue to monitor the situation.

Meanwhile, the DPNR is investigating if the gaseous smell was caused by hydrogen sulfide and if Limetree exceeded legal limits.

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