Nearly 20 Tampa Bay-area gas stations grappling with potential contamination as Idalia approaches

Just 48 hours after authorities in Florida issued a caution about "possibly extensive fuel pollution," around 20 gas stations along the Gulf Coast are still unable to sell fuel due to a restriction order. Meanwhile, residents are preparing for the imminent arrival of Hurricane Idalia, with some even choosing to evacuate.

On Sunday, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services announced that it had detected a problem with the quality of gas and diesel at the Port of Tampa. This issue was found to be a result of a mistake made by individuals.

The division alerted that gas obtained from 29 gas stations during the time frame of 10 a.m. on Saturday to Sunday had a "high probability of containing diesel fuel." All of these stations, which received their supply from Citgo, were located in the vicinity of Tampa.

Authorities cautioned that contamination may impact the functioning of vehicles.

After conducting urgent inspections and tests, authorities have determined that out of the 29 stations, six have not received the shipment that was contaminated, according to the latest update provided on Tuesday.

The department examined, resolved, and approved eight additional stations for selling fuel in various places like Cape Coral and Lehigh Acres.

In the meantime, the department stated that another 17 stations are still "awaiting laboratory confirmation" before they can resume sales.

"It is always unfortunate to experience such a disastrous mistake for customers, especially when Floridians are in the process of evacuating due to a potentially hazardous storm," stated Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson. "I strongly believe that our department was successful in minimizing the potential severity of this situation. We are prepared to support those affected by the tainted fuel, including their vehicles and equipment."

According to a statement issued by Citgo, they stumbled upon tainted merchandise at their Tampa, Florida facility on Saturday due to an error in product transportation within the terminal. Consequently, they promptly cease operations at the rack.

The company stated that the CITGO marketers who took gasoline and diesel from the terminal earlier on the same day were informed and requested to cease their sales.

Citgo stated its dedication to conducting operations that are safe, dependable, and accountable and is currently examining the occurrence.

Customers who think they bought fuel that is not safe for use on Saturday can start a request for compensation on Citgo's website or through a phone call.