Tropical Storm Helene is expected to turn east as it moves through the Caribbean and into the Gulf of Mexico, potentially becoming a hurricane with winds of up to 115 mph by Thursday. While this poses a risk of strong winds and heavy rain for Cuba and Florida, the storm’s current path along Florida’s west coast reduces the threat to U.S. offshore oil production. Offshore producers in the Gulf of Mexico have already shut down 16% of oil and 11% of natural gas production, with platforms evacuated and drilling rigs moved to safety in anticipation of the storm.
The U.S. Coast Guard has implemented shipping restrictions in parts of the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway and some ports in Alabama and Florida. However, ports in Gulfport, Pascagoula, and Tombigbee remain open for shipping. The offshore regulator reported that 284,000 barrels of crude oil per day and 208 million cubic feet of gas per day have been affected by production shutdowns, emphasizing the industry’s preemptive measures to protect personnel and infrastructure.
Oil producers like Shell, BP, Chevron, and Equinor have evacuated offshore workers and reduced production ahead of the storm’s arrival. Shell is resuming production at certain platforms, while others remain limited due to the forecasted impact of the storm. The National Hurricane Center warns of the potential for a major hurricane in the Gulf of Mexico, prompting oil companies to prioritize safety measures and contingency plans to safeguard their operations and personnel.
