Petrol leaking onto roads in Sydney suburb of Kurnell after pump failure

Petrol and diesel residue has leaked onto a flooded Sydney road after a big problem emerged at Australia’s largest fuel terminal.

Petrol has been mixing with floodwaters in Sydney after a pump failed at Australia’s largest fuel import terminal.

The wastewater treatment plant at the Kurnell terminal of petroleum company, Ampol became overwhelmed by floodwaters overnight.

Water began to spill out onto the street, discharging ‘hydrocarbon products’ and contaminating floodwaters.

Emergency services are onsite at Elouera Road near Greenhills to manage the hazardous material and working to prevent contamination.

Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW), which is now in control of the incident, announced around 8am that there was no risk of danger, despite the smell of fuel in the air.

“Significant rainfall overnight has filled a refinery retention pit with water, mixing with fuel residue at the site and creating a pungent odour in the area,” FRNSW said in a statement.

Hazmat specialists have been at the scene, along with NSW Police, the State Emergency Service, Rural Fire Service and other authorities, working together to assess and deal with the situation, and allay community fears.

The Caltex Refinery pump failed early in the morning causing fuel and diesel to overflow onto roads. Picture: 2GB

Residents reported smelling petrol early in the morning, taking to social media to get answers for the toxic fumes.

Roads in and out of Kurnell were reopened around 11.20am.

“Motorists should avoid driving through the area,” said the NSW SES.

“Drive to conditions and follow instructions of emergency services and road closure signage.”

🚧 Urgent road closures in and around Kurnell Township - situated around Eloura Road at Greenhills (roundabout)....

Posted by Southern Sydney NSW SES on Wednesday, April 6, 2022