Methane Leak on Balboa Peninsula Prompts Emergency Response in Newport Beach

A methane gas leak on Newport Beach’s Balboa Peninsula forced the evacuation of several homes and triggered a local emergency declaration earlier this week. Fire crews responded after residents reported the strong odor of gas seeping from beneath one of the properties, prompting an immediate investigation. Officials later determined the source was an abandoned oil well buried under the neighborhood, raising serious concerns about the city’s aging underground infrastructure.

Specialized hazmat teams worked to ventilate the area, installing a system to safely release methane buildup and prevent potential ignition. Seven homes were evacuated as a precaution, and nearby streets were briefly closed while engineers monitored air quality. Residents were allowed to return home after tests confirmed methane levels had dropped to safe levels, though city officials have continued to track the situation closely.

Newport Beach officials said the incident underscores the hidden risks of legacy oil wells scattered across Orange County’s coastal zones. The city is now coordinating with environmental agencies to assess other potential sites and implement long-term safety measures. While the immediate danger has passed, residents remain on alert as the city evaluates how to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Read the Original Article: https://www.nbclosangeles.com/news/local/newport-beach-balboa-methane-gas-leak/3795297/