California announces emergency in Santa Barbara following oil spill

California has announced a state of emergency in Santa Barbara County following an oil spill near Refugio State Beach that spilled almost 21,000 gallons (79,000 liters) of oil into the ocean.

Operated by Houston-based Plains All American Pipeline, the pipeline ruptured spilling the oil near Refugio State Beach.

California Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr said: "This emergency proclamation cuts red tape and helps the state quickly mobilise all available resources.

"We will do everything necessary to protect California’s coastline."

According to Santa Barbara County, up to 2,500 barrels of crude oil was released from the pipeline, however the authorities are investigating to assess the exact amount of spill.

The authorities also said that about 500 barrels of crude oil could have flowed into water.

It created a slick in the ocean which extends nearly four miles (6.4 km) along Refugio State Beach, extending about 50 yards (46 metres) into the water.

Plains All American Pipeline official Darren Palmer was quoted by BBC as saying that the pipeline was running at a rate of about 84,000 gallons an hour when it ruptured.

The pipe was built in 1991 and had been tested a few weeks ago, he said.

Governor’s Office of Emergency Services, California Department of Fish and Wildlife’s Office of Spill Prevention and Response (OSPR)and the California Department of Parks and Recreation are working together to clean the oil spill and protect the habitat.

According to the California Governor, the spill could threaten marine life, fish, marine mammals and fish.

The state is coordinating six boom boats, three 65-foot collection vessels and hand crews to help in cleanup efforts.