VANCOUVER - Clean-up crews are on their way to the site of an oil spill that could threaten dozens of killer whales off Vancouver Island.
B.C. Environment officials say an oil slick that could be as long as eight kilometres has been spotted not far from Robson Bight, a well-known location where the orcas rub their bodies on the rocks.
A barge overturned off northern Vancouver Island Monday afternoon, dumping several pieces of heavy equipment into the water, including a diesel truck with a 10,000 litre capacity.
A research scientist with the Vancouver Aquarium says the diesel spill is also harmful to the seabirds and dolphins in the area.
Dr. Lance Barrett-Lennard says there have been no reports yet of affected wildlife.
Once clean-up crews arrive on site, they'll assess whether they can begin containing the spill or have to wait until Tuesday morning.
