Obama administration asks British oil giant to clarify its intentions for cleaning up the mess in the Gulf of Mexico as states start to see oil on shore.

Hurricane Alex's strong winds pushed tar balls and oil sheen past the line of barges meant to protect the lake.

Environmentalists say the torrent of untested cleanup methods is wreaking havoc and may be unnecessary.

After a month delay imposed due to weather, BP on Monday resumed the drilling of the final stretch of a relief well.