Benzene spike

Map

Description

I am writing to request information regarding a benzene exceedance recorded at Kern Energy's fenceline monitor P3 on May 9, 2026, between approximately 8:40 AM and 10:20 AM PDT, with a peak concentration of 9.31 ppb under ESE winds at 1.6 mph. I would like to understand whether the District has investigated the source of this exceedance, including whether it originated from refinery operations or from off-site oil and gas production infrastructure located east/southeast of the facility. Given that Fuller Acres and Lamont residents are in the potential downwind path, I would appreciate any available information on the cause, duration, and any enforcement or follow-up actions taken. Please feel free to contact me at the information below with any findings or next steps.