Aliso Canyon Gas Leak that Displaced Thousands Caused by Corroded Well Lining, Report Says

In 2015 and into 2016, the largest known leak of methane in United States history occurred near Los Angeles at the Aliso Canyon Natural Gas Storage Facility. As a result, over 8,000 households had to be evacuated, and respiratory problems, nosebleeds, and dizziness were reported by those exposed to the gas. 

In a newly released 258-page report, California regulators say groundwater corroded the metal lining of an underground well that was over 50 years old, which led to its rupture at 832 feet below ground. The report also states that SoCalGas failed to thoroughly investigate more than 60 leaks dating back to the 1970s that had previously occurred at the complex. 

SoCalGas said in its own statement that, at the time, they violated no well or safety regulations. "The leak was an industry-changing event resulting in the development and implementation of enhanced safety regulations and practices [...] Today Aliso Canyon is safe to operate, and Blade's report indicates the industry-leading safety enhancements and new regulations put into place after the leak should prevent this type of incident from occurring again. " 

(Thumbnail Photo: Earthworks via Flickr)