Health and environmental authorities in Antigua and Barbuda have issued an urgent advisory prohibiting all fishing and seafood consumption from waters near Hermitage Bay following confirmed petroleum contamination. The joint notice from the Central Board of Health and Fisheries Division emerged after the Antigua Barbuda Defence Force Coast Guard detected an oil sheen in the waters west of Cook’s Landfill on the morning of February 12, 2026.
Immediate response teams from both the Coast Guard and West Indies Oil Company conducted comprehensive assessments confirming the presence of petroleum-based contaminants on the water surface. Preliminary investigations point to potential seepage from the adjacent Cook’s Landfill area as the likely contamination source, though official determination remains ongoing.
While current wind and wave patterns are dispersing the substance away from shorelines, authorities have implemented precautionary measures due to potential risks to marine ecosystems and human health. The advisory specifically prohibits fishing activities, consumption of marine life, and commercial distribution of seafood from the affected cove area.
Emergency response protocols have been partially activated with multiple agencies including the Environment Division, Port Authority, and APUA now monitoring the situation. Coast Guard units remain on-site conducting aerial surveillance to determine the full extent of environmental impact.
Officials urge public compliance with these protective measures and request immediate reporting of any additional petroleum sightings to Coast Guard emergency numbers provided in the advisory.