By Eileen Fleming
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wwno/local-wwno-913385.mp3
New Orleans, La. – High levels would have indicated the well line isn't damaged beneath the seafloor. BP Vice President Kent Wells says the oil leak itself may be the cause of low-pressure readings. He says the oil gushing out over the past three months may have depleted the deepwater reservoir. Coast Guard incident commander Thad Allen says the readings could also be in line with those of a well being closed off. The government has ordered more testing while the containment cap seems to be holding back the oil. Wells says pressure is building, but slowly. He says a breach would show pressure rise and then flat line, or drop suddenly. Testing done every six hours could continue through the weekend.
For NPR News, I'm Eileen Fleming in New Orleans.