Oil leak reported in Robbinsdale, lake contamination possible
An oil leak in Robbinsdale was initially contained by the Robbinsdale Fire Department before heavy rains moved throughout the area, breaching their efforts.
ROBBINSDALE, Minn. (FOX 9) - Authorities tried to contain an oil leak at Sipe and Gray Oil Station in Robbinsdale Friday night, but heavy rains caused some oil to enter the storm sewer system, causing concerns it may contaminate a local lake.
The Robbinsdale Fire Department said fire crews responded to a call around 4:45 p.m. for a reported oil spill on the 4200 block of West Broadway. At the scene, they found an oil container at the rear of the building that had started to leak. As crews worked to contain the oil, heavy rains moved through the area, causing some of the oil to go into the storm sewer system.
Crews remained on site to contain the spill, which is believed to be around 30 to 50 gallons. The City of Robbinsdale Public Works Department also responded to the scene with additional containment equipment.
The fire department said the containment and cleanup efforts remain underway at the original leak site and the South Twin Lake, where the storm sewer system empties into. It's unknown how much oil entered the sewer system or if any has entered the lake.
The Robbinsdale Fire Department and the City Emergency Management Team is following all protocols and is working with the State of Minnesota Duty Officer and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to address this spill officials said. Sipe and Gray Shell Oil is cooperating with all agencies involved.