Report: Terror Attack on LNG Transports Could Have Widespread Effect

Dec. 21, 2004
New report says effects of LNG fire could be felt a mile away

WASHINGTON (AP) - A tanker delivering liquefied natural gas (LNG) at a US port could be a tempting target for terrorists.

Government experts say such an attack could set off a fire so hot it would burn skin and damage buildings nearly a mile away.

The possible threat is examined in a new report expected to influence where new multi-billion-dollar LNG terminals will be built. The report, obtained by The Associated Press, characterizes an LNG tanker spill from a terror attack as a low probability.

But the report says if successful, it would become ``a high consequence event'' that could produce massive injuries and property damage.

The Passamaquoddy Tribe in Maine wants to build an LNG terminal on tribal land near Eastport. Several other LNG terminals have been proposed in New England and eastern Canada to meet the region's energy needs.