BP has been given another 24 hours to test the sealing cap in place on its disastrous Gulf of Mexico oil well.

The National Incident Commander, Admiral Thad Allen, extended the test despite concerns regarding the monitoring systems in place and indications oil may be leaking from somewhere. A seep has been observed near the now-sealed well and there are also indications of methane over the well, says Allen.

Allen said yesterday that the pressure readings from the cap were lower than expected, possibly indicating that oil was leaking out somewhere. If necessary the valves in the cap can be opened, allowing oil to be piped to the surface for collection.

“This test will only continue if they [BP] continue to meet their obligations to rigorously monitor for any signs that this test could worsen the overall situation,” he said today. “At any moment, we have the ability to return to the safe containment of the oil on the surface until the time the relief well is completed and the well is permanently killed.”

BP says the relief wells currently be drilled to permanently shut down the leaking well will likely be ready in the first half of August.