Written by: Karim Hammam
In the Preserve at Medina neighborhood located on Highway 16 in the far southwest of San Antonio, Texas, methane and hydrogen sulfide gas are leaking from an old oil well, and the smell of gas is spreading heavily in the air.
Health concerns and resident complaints
Residents expressed concern about inhaling fumes, noting that the smell leaks into homes through cracks. Crystal Morales said her sister lives near the well, which was first plugged in 2006, but it continues to leak despite multiple attempts to plug it by the Railroad Commission of Texas. Morales added: "Nothing is being done about it, and this could be bad for our health."
William Hessel, who has a son and a newborn, said he cannot spend time in his front yard because of the fumes, adding: "I will try not to be here, which means I can't do anything in the front yard." Residents noted that they were not aware of this problem before moving to the neighborhood, and that the management office did not inform them of anything.
Failed attempts to plug the well
Pixar County public works crews were seen documenting the presence of oil on streets and sidewalks. The Railroad Commission of Texas is responsible for the well, and has made four attempts to re-plug it, and continues to monitor gas levels in the area, with plans to send more teams to investigate.
Medical warnings regarding gas exposure
Dr. Alan Siqueiros, director of the medical intensive care unit at Christus Westover Hills Hospital, warned that hydrogen sulfide is highly toxic and its effect depends on the concentration. He said that low concentrations may cause irritation, coughing, dizziness, nausea, and headaches, while long-term exposure may lead to serious neurological effects such as memory loss, difficulty concentrating, and mood changes.
Regulatory response
State officials and environmental regulatory agencies confirmed that there is currently no immediate threat to health or safety, while some families are considering moving from the neighborhood but fear it will be difficult to sell their homes due to the leak.
