Fuel spill at Atlanta airport contaminates Flint River

Governor Brian Kemp declared a state of emergency for Spalding County after a reported significant fuel release at or near Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport; cleanup crews are working while a visible petroleum sheen remains on the Flint River and officials have not disclosed the cause or volume.

A fuel release occurred at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport on Friday and has contaminated the Flint River. Cleanup crews are working at the site, but observers report a visible petroleum sheen on the water. Airport officials have not publicly disclosed how the incident happened or how much fuel was released, and local advocates have raised concerns about transparency. Reported developments: - Governor Brian Kemp declared a state of emergency for Spalding County's water supply, saying a significant release of fuel occurred at or near the airport. - Cleanup crews are on site and a visible sheen of petroleum has been observed on the Flint River; some residents and the Flint Riverkeeper reported a kerosene-like smell. - Airport and city officials have not disclosed the cause or volume of the spill, and the Flint Riverkeeper group said it is strongly considering legal action. Summary: The state of emergency affects oversight of drinking water for communities downstream and follows reports of river contamination. Authorities say cleanup and investigation are ongoing, and possible legal action is being considered. The extent of the release remains undetermined at this time.