Repsol Gas Well Blow Out
On February 15, 2012 the Respol E&P Qugruk No. 2 exploration well, on Alaska's North Slope encountered a shallow, high pressure gas pocket--causing the well to blow out and blast well contents across the tundra. It took over a month the secure the well.
As of March 17, Repsol reported to the DEC that 42,000 gallons, or 1,000 barrels, of water-based drilling fluids were ejected from the wellbore by the gas kick. Repsol reported having cleaned and removed 91,939 gallons, or 2,189 barrels, of liquids from the site, mostly thawed drilling fluid and water.
In addition, 2,363 cubic yards of solid waste, frozen drilling mud and downhole materials, have been shipped offsite.
The well is located near the Colville River, 625 miles from Anchorage.