Rita Will Pack Punch At The Pump

The 21 refineries closed by the storm represent 27.5% of the total refining capability in the U.S., Platt’s energy news service reported. Another 5% remains out of commission in the aftermath of Katrina. The U.S. Minerals Management Service on Thursday said that 605 platforms in the Gulf were unstaffed, compared with 469 on Wednesday. More than 90% of the region’s oil production was blocked, while more than 65% of natural gas production was affected.

Forbes