BP - 'Top Kill' has failed

Next Option 'Top Hat"

Using the most conservative estimate, scientists have estimated 18 million gallons have spilled so far. Worst-case scenario is 39 million gallons. This oil spill has overtaken Exxon Valdez (1989, Alaska, 11 million gallons) as the biggest oil spill in US history.

Whatever methods used to cap the well is considered as temporary measure, the real solution is a relief well. BP currently is working on 2 relief wells, but they are not expected to be ready until August. If all the temporary capping failed, by August, assuming the relief well managed to stop the spilling, 72 million gallons, most conservative estimate, would have spilled.