23.05.2026 13:40
A malfunction in a tank filled with toxic chemicals in the US state of California has led to evacuation orders for 40,000 people due to risks of explosion and leakage.
A malfunction occurred in a tank filled with methyl methacrylate, a flammable and volatile chemical, at an aviation facility in the city of Garden Grove, California, USA.
3 EVACUATION CENTERS ESTABLISHED
Due to the risk of leakage and explosion from the tank, it was decided to evacuate 40,000 people living in the vicinity of the facility. Three evacuation centers were set up: one in Garden Grove and the other two in the neighboring cities of Anaheim and Cypress.
EXPLOSION RISK EXISTS
Craig Covey from the Orange County Fire Authority stated that if the tank leaks, it could release up to 7,000 gallons (26,500 liters) of toxic chemicals or explode, saying, "There are two possible outcomes: it could crack and leak, or it could explode. This is unacceptable for us." Covey noted that firefighters continue efforts to cool the tank to prevent an explosion. Covey added, "The temperature has dropped to around 61 degrees, while the ideal temperature is around 50 degrees."
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the chemical in question is used in plastic production and can cause serious respiratory problems upon exposure.