Indonesia: State of emergency in Balikpapan due to oil spill

Event

A state of emergency was declared for the port city of Balikpapan on Monday, April 2, after an oil spill and a subsequent fire killed four people off the island of Borneo two days prior. The oil spill has spread to a radius of 2 km (1.2 mi) from the waters around Semayang Port to Margasari, the Makassar Strait, and beaches in southeastern Makassar. Authorities are coordinating with oil companies to clean up the spill.

Context

Over 1000 people living near the site (Penajam subdistrict, Penajam Paser Utara regency) have reportedly experienced negative health effects (nausea, breathing problems) following the incident. Authorities have warned residents to be careful at affected beaches and to avoid smoking. 

Advice

Individuals present in East Kalimantan province are advised to avoid nonessential travel near the site of the oil spill and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.