Hercules Offshore Encounters Well Control Incident on Jackup Drilling Rig

Hercules Offshore announced that it is experiencing a well control incident on jackup drilling rig Hercules 265, a 250' mat-supported cantilevered unit. Efforts are ongoing to regain control of the natural gas well. At this time, all 47 personnel on board have been evacuated and are being transported to a secure location.

The rig is currently operating for Walter Oil & Gas Corporation in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico OCS lease block South Timbalier 220. All necessary governmental authorities have been notified of the incident

"Our first and foremost concern is for the safety of all personnel aboard our drilling rig and we have taken every necessary precaution to safely evacuate the rig.  Furthermore, efforts are ongoing with our client, Walter Oil & Gas, to mobilize the necessary resources to regain control of the well and minimize any potential impact on the environment," said John T. Rynd, CEO and President of Hercules Offshore.

The well is about 55 miles offshore in 154 feet of water.

The U.S. Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement said the well was flowing gas but no oil was being released. It added there was a "light sheen" a half mile by 50 feet across that was dissipating.