Florida officials are sounding the alarm regarding a potential widespread fuel contamination issue that has emerged at certain gas stations in the state. The contamination could lead to harmful effects on engines, coinciding with the imminent threat of Tropical Storm Idalia, which may prompt residents to hit the road or seek fuel for generators.
The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services issued a warning, revealing that fuel supplied by Citgo from Port Tampa Bay had been contaminated due to a “human error.” People who acquired fuel from over two dozen gas stations along Florida’s Gulf Coast, including those in the Tampa region, might have received contaminated fuel if the purchase occurred after 10 a.m. on Saturday.
Affected gas stations span from Fort Myers to Brooksville and are mainly Citgo-supplied. Despite Citgo’s initial reluctance to release a list of impacted stations, the state later disclosed the list of stations believed to have received the contaminated fuel.
The revelation comes as Tropical Storm Idalia forms, with projections indicating it could develop into a hurricane. The storm’s potential trajectory threatens Florida’s west coast, where the tainted fuel was distributed.
Governor Ron DeSantis addressed the issue in a news conference, acknowledging that while it’s unrelated to the storm, it could pose challenges as the storm approaches.
The contaminated fuel, containing diesel, poses risks to engines and their functionality. The affected gas stations have been asked to halt fuel sales until the contaminated supply is replaced and tanks are cleaned.
The state has established a hotline for individuals who suspect they purchased contaminated fuel to report their concerns. The Florida Department of Emergency Management has also taken measures to ensure a smooth fuel supply amidst the disruption.