Sydney, Australia - September 25, 2024

Residents and tourists were met with an unexpected spectacle on September 25th when a vibrant green hue suddenly enveloped a section of Sydney Harbor, transforming the iconic waterway into a scene reminiscent of a whimsical St. Patrick's Day celebration. The mysterious discoloration, initially causing alarm, was swiftly identified by Fire and Rescue NSW as likely due to fluorescein, a harmless dye frequently used by plumbers to detect leaks.

Fire and Rescue NSW responded promptly to the bizarre incident at Kirribilli Bay, a picturesque suburb of Sydney. "Our team quickly investigated and confirmed the spill was non-toxic," the service announced on social media, reassuring the public of the situation's safety. Video footage from the incident showed the normally blue harbor water taking on an almost surreal green shade, akin to the famous dyeing of the Chicago River for St. Patrick's Day.

Superintendent Adam Dewberry from Fire and Rescue NSW explained, "We can't say for sure, but that's what we think it is," referring to the suspected use of fluorescein. The dye, known for its brilliant green fluorescence under certain lights, is indeed commonly employed by professionals to trace water flow in plumbing systems or detect leaks, making it highly effective yet generally safe for the environment.

Despite the shock value, the dye's impact on marine life appeared minimal, with no immediate adverse effects observed on fish or other wildlife in the area. Dewberry noted, "It's a common product that does get used to dye water," underscoring its benign nature.

Witnesses had reported seeing green liquid in a storm drain at Anderson Park the day prior, suggesting a possible entry point for the dye. However, the exact source and the pathway of the chemical into the harbor remain under investigation by local authorities.