On September 11, a storage tank failure at the Equinix NY2 data center in Secaucus, New Jersey, resulted in a spill of approximately 5,000 to 5,500 gallons of diesel fuel. The fuel entered a storm drain and reached a tributary of Anderson Creek.
Equinix contractor Clean Harbors recovered about 3,500 gallons of fuel by the following weekend. As of mid-September, approximately 1,500 gallons remain unaccounted for within the tributary system. Cleanup efforts continue under the supervision of the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection and the US Coast Guard.
The leak was attributed to a mechanical valve failure, with potential involvement of a computer glitch. The NY2 facility, which covers 130,000 square feet, has been in operation since 2001. Authorities report no observed impact on the Hackensack River, local wildlife, or drinking water sources.
Local officials, including Secaucus Mayor Michael Gonnelli, have expressed concern regarding the incident and are considering potential natural resource damage claims. This event highlights ongoing discussions about the environmental impact of aging digital infrastructure.
