By Karen Robes Meeks
The US Coast Guard said it is keeping an eye on the growing number of oil tankers parked at sea in the San Pedro Bay.
Approximately 27 tankers were in the water Thursday, a result of a reduced demand for crude and a backed up supply chain.
"Due to the unique nature of this situation, the Coast Guard is constantly evaluating and adapting our procedures to ensure the safety of the vessels at anchor and the protection of the surrounding environment," said Cmdr. Marshall Newberry, from Coast Guard Sector Los Angeles/Long Beach. "Coast Guard watchstanders, in partnership with the Marine Exchange of Southern California, are closely monitoring each anchorage to manage the increased number of tank vessels we're seeing off the California coast."