Oil In Gulf Enters Loop Current: Worries Rise For Gulf Stream

Oil from the underwater gusher in the Gulf of Mexico has apparently entered the Loop Current, raising concerns that it will eventually work its way to the Gulf Stream which could take it to up the U.S.'s Atlantic Coast, according to scientists.

The Associated Press reports:

ROBERT, La. (AP) - Federal scientists say a small portion of the oil slick from the blown-out well in the Gulf of Mexico has reached a powerful current that could take it to Florida.

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration scientists said Wednesday they have detected light to very light sheens in the loop current, which circulates into the Gulf and takes water south to the Florida Keys and the Gulf Stream.

The agency says that any oil would be "highly weathered" and could evaporate before reaching Florida. And it says the oil could never reach Florida at all.

But scientists say diluted oil could appear in isolated locations in Florida if persistent winds push the current toward it.

The New York Times has a useful interactive that allows you to see the extent and location of the oil spill over time.

All Things Considered host Michele Norris on Wednesday discussed with NPR correspondent Richard Harris what we've learned from congressional hearings about the size of the oil spill as well as the crude oil's movement into the Loop Current.