California Beaches Reopen After Oil Spill

An oil spill off the coast of Huntington Beach led to the closure of city and state beaches for nearly two weeks. After water quality tests showed no detectable oil or toxins, the beaches were reopened. However, officials continue to warn the public to avoid areas with oil odors and not to touch oil-contaminated objects. The spill, caused by a ship's anchor damaging a pipeline, released between 25,000 and 132,000 gallons of crude oil into the ocean. Despite the reopening, there are ongoing concerns about the economic and environmental impacts on the local area, particularly affecting wetlands and wildlife.

What prompted the reopening of Huntington Beach and nearby state beaches?

• A decrease in tourist visits

• Completion of a new beach facility

• No detectable oil or toxins in water tests

• A local government mandate

What should people avoid according to city and state park officials?

• Areas that smell like oil

• Swimming in the ocean

• Visiting the beach at night

• Fishing in the area

What is the estimated range of crude oil that leaked into the ocean?

• 10,000 to 50,000 gallons

• 25,000 to 132,000 gallons

• 50,000 to 200,000 gallons

• 100,000 to 250,000 gallons

What is believed to have caused the oil spill?

• A faulty pipeline

• A ship's anchor

• A natural disaster

• An oil rig malfunction

What are local officials concerned about despite the beaches reopening?

• The economic and environmental impacts

• The lack of public interest

• The increase in tourism

• The impact on local businesses