Investigators Narrow Down Source Of Petroleum Vapors In Layton
Mar 1, 2019, 1:05 PM
Utah National Guard was called to help discover the source of petroleum vapors in Layton in February.
LAYTON, Utah – Scientists from the Utah Department of Environmental Quality discovered the source of petroleum vapors that have plagued a neighborhood for days.
Investigators have reportedly narrowed down the problem to petroleum products in groundwater adjacent to a gas station on Gentile Street. The petroleum has worked its way into a 40-year-old storm drain along Angel Street, according to a statement from the DEQ.
“We’re working with the owner of the gas station to see if the underground storage tanks are contributing to the plume,” said Brent Everett, director of the Division of Environmental Response and Remediation. “In addition we will continue our work to abate the vapors in the affected homes, identify all sources, define the extent of the plume, and begin cleanup efforts.”
RELATED: Layton Gets National Guard Help To Investigate Petroleum-Like Fumes
The smell was first reported by residents on Feb. 14, and within five days, scientists were investigating underground storage tanks. The state eventually authorized emergency funds to abate vapors in three houses.
Layton City spokesman Steve Garside said the vapors were first noticed last year, though, when crews were replacing a sewer line.
Scientists with the Division of Environmental Response and Remediation are unsure of the extent of the plume and encourage residents who smell petroleum odors in their homes or emanating from a storm drain to call 9-1-1 so the Fire Department can respond.
