The Deepwater Horizon Disaster: Timeline of the 2010 Gulf of Mexico Oil Spill

April 20, 2010

Explosion on Deepwater Horizon rig (41 mi SE of Venice, LA). 11 killed. Rig sinks April 22.

May 2, 2010

Oil begins gushing from seabed well—largest U.S. spill begins.

May 22, 2010

President Obama declares national emergency.

July 15, 2010

Temporary cap stops flow.

September 19, 2010

Permanent seal achieved.

Long-Term Impact

Millions of barrels spilled; wildlife, fisheries, coasts, tourism devastated. Regulatory reforms followed.