Following last week’s oil-rig explosion in the Gulf of Mexico, the estimated amount of oil leaking underwater has increased to 5,000 barrels a day, which is five times the amount originally announced. This new figure is based on a “lot of variables,” including a third leak that was located in the pipeline, BP’s chief operating officer said. The spill now has the potential to become one of the worst in U.S. history, according to Coast Guard officials. [CNN]
