Analysis of extreme weather events shows vulnerability of Gulf of Mexico production

Storms and hurricanes regularly challenge and endanger the coastal community and energy infrastructure throughout the Gulf of Mexico. When hurricane enters the gulf, oil production and pipeline facilities in the expected path of the storm are shut down, crews are evacuated and refineries and processing plants along the gulf coast closed. In extreme weather, damage to offshore facilities is unavoidable and can take many forms. During emergency, companies follow standard operating procedures for the operation, evacuation, and securing of rig or platform in adverse weather. As the number of weather events per month increases, the average monthly production change becomes increasingly negative and on a more frequent basis. Statistical analysis of the gulf monthly production against weather events are provided.