BALTIMORE — A significant oil spill has occurred in Baltimore Harbor, with at least 2,000 gallons of oil released into the water. Cleanup efforts are currently in progress, according to officials from the Maryland Department of the Environment.

The spill, which is primarily diesel fuel, has been traced back to a pipeline associated with Johns Hopkins Hospital. An investigation is underway to determine the precise cause of the leak. Maryland leaders are expected to provide an update on the situation early Thursday morning.

Responders have mobilized pollution response equipment, including containment booms, to manage the spill. They are actively working to recover as much of the spilled oil as possible from the waterway. The U.S. Coast Guard is on-site, monitoring the cleanup operations to ensure compliance with federal environmental response standards and to protect the surrounding environment.

The affected area is currently contained within the marina at the South Central Avenue Bridge in Harbor East, covering approximately 100 yards by 250 yards. The visible red color in the water is attributed to dye present in the oil, which has raised concerns among local residents and officials alike.

In a separate report, the Maryland Department of the Environment initially indicated that about 100 gallons of diesel had leaked into the harbor. However, the latest assessments confirm that the spill is much larger than previously reported. Emergency response teams, including the Coast Guard and private contractors, are collaborating to address the situation and mitigate any further environmental impact.