The Exxon Valdez Oil Spill occurred on March 24, 1989, when the oil tanker Exxon Valdez struck a reef in Prince William Sound, Alaska. The accident released approximately 11 million gallons of crude oil into the ocean, causing extensive environmental damage to the surrounding marine ecosystem. The spill affected thousands of miles of coastline and harmed various wildlife, including sea otters, seals, and birds. Cleanup efforts were extensive but faced challenges due to harsh weather conditions and the oil's persistence in the environment. The incident led to significant changes in regulations regarding oil transportation and environmental protection.