The potential environmental effect of the oil depot explosions in southeastern England was being assessed by the British Environment Agency tonight.
The Agency said the main areas of concern are the potential for pollution to groundwater and surface water (rivers and streams), and also damage to land quality.
A spokesman said that would only occur if any of the substances, including kerosene, diesel, gas oil and gasoline, were to escape from the site. As yet here is no evidence to suggest that this has happened - however the situation is being monitored constantly.
Colin Chiverton, Environment manager said: "Clearly the immediate concern is controlling the incident at hand.
"At the moment we are closely monitoring the situation for any potential environmental impact and will continue to do so."
The Health Protection Agency is the lead organisation for information on the potential effects of the smoke plume on air quality, although the Environment Agency is also monitoring the situation, and working closely with Health Protection Agency to establish the extent of the plume, now and tomorrow.
PA