Weegy: On the evening of April 20, 2010, a gas release and subsequent explosion occurred on the Deepwater Horizon oil rig working on the Macondo exploration well for BP in the Gulf of Mexico
The fire burned for 36 hours before the rig sank, [ and hydrocarbons leaked into the Gulf of Mexico for 87 days before the well was closed and sealed.
Fundamentally, the accident involved a loss of control over the pressure in the well followed by the failure of the well's blowout preventer, a specialized valve designed to maintain consistent conditions. After the initial explosions, the blowout preventer’s emergency functions failed to seal the well, allowing the leak to occur.
Eleven people died as a result of the accident and others were injured. We deeply regret this loss of life and recognize the tremendous loss suffered by the families, friends and co-workers of those who died. ]
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