CLG: Indian Point nuclear facility operator reports ‘alarming levels’ of radioactivity in plant’s groundwater; some wells increase 65,000%

Indian Point nuclear facility operator reports ‘alarming levels’ of radioactivity in plant’s groundwater; some wells increase 65,000%

DENIS SLATTERY

NEW YORK DAILY NEWS
Updated: Sunday, February 7, 2016

JULIE JACOBSON/AP

The Indian Point nuclear facility reported “alarming levels” of radioactivity in three water monitoring wells.

Radioactive water overflowed into the groundwater at the upstate Indian Point nuclear power plant, officials said Saturday.

Gov. Cuomo said the plant’s operator, Entergy, reported “alarming levels” of radioactivity at three monitoring wells, with one well’s radioactivity increasing nearly 65,000%.

The Buchanan plant reported that the contamination did not migrate offsite and does not pose a threat to public health.

Cuomo said he was informed of the tritium-contaminated water leak Friday and asked the Department of Environmental Conservation and the Department of Health to investigate the incident.

“Our first concern is for the health and safety of the residents close to the facility and ensuring the groundwater leak does not pose a threat,” Cuomo said.

The site, roughly 35 miles north of New York City, has been under increased scrutiny from Cuomo and other officials following several incidents. In December, Cuomo ordered an investigation into Indian Point after a series of unplanned shutdowns, citing potential risks to both the city and surrounding suburbs.

Cuomo said the “latest failure at Indian Point is unacceptable.”

According to Neil Sheehan, a spokesman for the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, the leak occurred after a drain overflowed during a maintenance exercise while workers were transferring water containing high levels of radioactive contamination.

A sump pump that would normally filter the water into another treatment system was out of service, Sheehan said.

Other state officials also blasted the controversial nuclear facility’s most recent mishap.

Assemblywoman Ellen Jaffee (D-Suffern)said she was concerned not only for the surrounding community but also for the “impact this radioactive water may have on public health and our environment,” Jaffee added.

Frequently asked questions about the Indian Point nuclear power plant

Where is the Indian Point nuclear facility located? Buchanan, N.Y., roughly 40 miles north of Manhattan.

How many reactors are there? Two.

How much energy does it supply to New York City? About 30%.

How many monitoring wells are there? 40.

How many of those wells reported increased levels of radioactivity? Three.

What is a picocurie? One-trillionth of a curie, a standard scientific measure of radiation.


http://www.nydailynews.com/new-york/radioactive-water-leaks-groundwater-indian-point-article-1.2522670