MANHATTAN, Kan. — The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Kansas City District, has launched an emergency response following a barge incident at Tuttle Creek Lake on Sunday afternoon.
At approximately 1:45 p.m. on March 15, 2026, a fuel cell containing roughly 1,800 gallons of diesel fuel became submerged in 20 feet of water. Officials believe the incident was triggered by high winds and heavy wave action on the lake. At this time, investigators have ruled out foul play.
Emergency Measures Underway
The Army Corps has activated its emergency response plan to protect the local environment. Key actions currently in progress include:
- Multi-Agency Coordination: Working alongside the barge contractor, the National Response Center, and State of Kansas officials.
- Deployment of Specialists: A professional dive team and specialized mitigation equipment are being sent to the site.
- Containment Efforts: Crews are focused on assessing the submerged tank and preventing any potential leaks into the reservoir.
Public Safety Advisory
The safety of the public remains the top priority. Authorities are advising all residents and visitors to avoid boating in Tuttle Creek Cove until further notice to allow response teams to work safely and effectively.
Stay Informed
The Kansas City District has committed to transparency throughout the recovery process. For real-time updates and further information, the public is encouraged to visit the official Kansas City District Facebook page.
