No firm tally on how much oil leaked in spill

HUNTINGTON BEACH »

Nearly a week since oil first appeared in the waters off Southern California, how much oil leaked from a ruptured underwater pipeline is still unknown—though experts say the amount should be easy to calculate.

While there isn’t a firm tally, plenty of numbers have been floated.

The company that owns and operates three offshore platforms and the pipeline has said publicly that no more than 126,000 gallons leaked. But Houston-based Amplify Energy also told federal investigators the total amount may only be 29,400 gallons

On Thursday, U.S. Coast Guard Capt. Rebecca Ore said five federal and state agencies assessed pipeline data and determined that at least about 25,000 gallons of crude spilled. No more than 132,000 gallons spilled, she said, adding that’s a maximum scenario and has not been confirmed.

Local officials have voiced hope the total spillage will be less than feared.