California declares state of emergency after toxic leak threatens thousands of residents
Summary
California officials declared a state of emergency after a tank containing toxic chemicals started leaking in Orange County. About 40,000 people were evacuated due to fears of an explosion, and firefighters are working to cool the tank and contain the leak.Key Facts
- A tank holding 7,000 gallons of methyl methacrylate, a flammable chemical used in plastics, developed a leak in Orange County’s Garden Grove area.
- The leak began on Friday, spreading fumes near a densely populated area close to Disneyland.
- Approximately 40,000 residents were ordered to evacuate because of the threat of an explosion.
- Firefighters found a crack in the tank which might be releasing pressure and lowering the risk of an explosion.
- Water is being sprayed on the tank to keep it cool and prevent it from heating up further.
- Authorities are placing barriers to stop the chemical from reaching storm drains or waterways leading to the ocean.
- The US Environmental Protection Agency states methyl methacrylate can irritate skin, eyes, and lungs and cause neurological effects if people are exposed to it a lot or for a long time.
- Evacuated residents are still not allowed to return home, and shelters have been set up for them.
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