TRAJECTORY ANALYSIS OF OIL SPILL AT THE GULF OF GUINEA: CASE OF CAMEROON - KRIBI

Abstract

Objectives: The objective of this study was to determine the trajectory and duration of oil slick touching or reaching the shore of kribi-Cameroon in case of an oil spill in the coast of Guinea. With the trajectory analysis known, better contingency planning can be done to protect sensitive areas and the beach activating oil spill response.

Methodology: systematic review past articles on oil spill trajectory analysis from peer was done. This article shows how the surface currents, waves and wind direction affects oil slick movement. The used of GNOME for oil slick modelling as well as the ADIOS for better analysis including the oil dispersed with the estimated budget to clean up the spill provides a better tool for spill trajectory analysis.

Findings: There are two factors that affects the accuracy of oil slick trajectory analysis. The inability to obtain or measure wind and current speeds at the time of the spill and the rotation of the earth thus deflecting the spill either to the northern or southern hemisphere.

Recommendations: Crude oil does not degrade easily and can remain in the environment for decades. Oil production companies needs to put in place a rapid clean up response group with frequent drill exercise. This can help to contain the spilled oil in a timely manner to avoid spreading and further contamination of the sea and other sensitive area. Focus should be on their operating equipment, processes put in place for maintenance strategies and trained qualified personnel to operate their facility.