On April 1st, about 1,000 gallons of a non-hazardous insulating fluid spilled into a storm drain at Nereid Avenue from a Con Edison transmission feeder in Yonkers.
Cleanup crews spread seven booms across the river from McLean Avenue in Yonkers down to Fordham Road in the Bronx. These booms absorb the spilt dielectric fluid; preventing it from traveling further south. While there aren’t any health or environmental concerns thus far, Con Edison cleanup crews are working in Yonkers to bind any fluid before it reaches the booms.
Potential Environmental Impact
Dielectric fluid is similar to mineral oils with very low water solubility. The most significant difference is that dielectric fluid has been processed to remove impurities and has been tested and certified to meet international safety standards. While dielectric fluid has a low toxicity, it can have an adverse effect on humans and the ecosystem considering the large quantity.
In humans, inhaling concentrations of vapors may irritate the respiratory system and lead to headache, fatigue, nausea, and vomiting. For birds and fur-bearing mammals, it can disrupt their insulating ability. It can also impact a bird’s ability to repel water; potentially leading to hypothermia. Thankfully, the mortality of aquatic life and resources is highly unlikely.
Aside from the environment, the river is a known local fishing spot, a running path, and a location where locals enjoy the serenity of the area.
It’s terrible. Especially for a lot of the seniors and the elderly that visit the park, that look at the water. There is a lot of wildlife in the water and stuff. It’s horrible.
Local Resident Michael Trent to CBS News New York
Hope For a Quick Turnaround
While the smell is horrendous according to residents in the area, the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) estimates the cleanup to take about 10 days. However, impacts from last week’s rainstorm may extend that timeline.
The Bronx River Alliance is in contact with the DEC, Con Ed, and the City of Yonkers to monitor the ongoing cleanup. Furthermore, the organization seeks to understand any impacts the spill may have on our communities.
