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California chemical tank no longer under threat of catastrophic explosion: Officials

California chemical tank no longer under threat of catastrophic explosion: Officials

Summary

A large chemical tank at an aerospace facility in Garden Grove, California, is no longer at risk of a big explosion, officials said. About 50,000 people remain evacuated as authorities continue to watch the situation and cool the tank to prevent any leaks or smaller incidents.

Key Facts

  • The chemical tank is located at GKN Aerospace in Garden Grove, roughly 30 miles south of Los Angeles.
  • The tank contained 34,000 gallons of methyl methacrylate, a chemical used in making plastics that can irritate the skin, eyes, and lungs.
  • Officials said the tank's temperature has dropped, reducing the chance of a huge explosion called a BLEVE (Boiling Liquid Expanding Vapor Explosion).
  • A crack in the tank helped release some pressure, making an explosion less likely, but the tank is still being cooled with water.
  • About 50,000 people near the site are under evacuation orders to avoid exposure to any possible chemical leak.
  • California Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency in Orange County in response to the situation.
  • Authorities continue to monitor air quality and have closed roads inside the evacuation zone of about 10 square miles.
  • Officials said places outside the evacuation zone are safe for normal activities.
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