USVI Struggles to Cap Propane Leak in St. Croix

Authorities in the U.S. Virgin Islands are trying to contain a propane leak that forced the evacuation of some 100 guests from two nearby hotels. St. Croix Fire Chief Angel Torres said crews on Tuesday were trying to minimize the effects on air quality.

CHARLOTTE AMALIE, U.S. Virgin Islands (AP) — Authorities in the U.S. Virgin Islands are trying to contain a propane leak that forced the evacuation of some 100 guests from two nearby hotels.

St. Croix Fire Chief Angel Torres said crews on Tuesday were trying to minimize the effects on air quality.

He said officials are trying to either transfer the remaining propane from the malfunctioning truck or let the tank drain on its own.

The leak began as the Antilles Gas Corporation truck was on a Monday morning delivery run to a restaurant in downtown Christiansted. Authorities evacuated the Caravelle and Holger Danske hotels as a result.

Torres said the tank still contains some 1,000 pounds (455 kilograms) of propane.

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