Rig blowout in Gulf leaks natural gas, prompts evacuation

Forty-four workers were evacuated from a natural gas rig in the Gulf on Mexico Tuesday following a blowout on the platform, U.S. Coast Guard Lt. Scott Talbot said.

The incident took place as the Hercules 265 platform hit an unexpected gas pocket as crew members were preparing the well for production.

No injuries were reported after the collision.

Talbot said that there was no visible sheen on the water's surface. He did not specify when the gas would be shut off.

The affected rig is leased by Walter Oil & Gas Corporation.