"We are pleased to announce the threat has been eliminated," stated TJ McGovern, acting fire chief for the Orange County Fire Authority, California, on 25/5, referring to the risk of an explosion from a 26,500 liter tank of methyl methacrylate (MMA) at aerospace manufacturer GKN Aerospace.
An explosion of this tank was the worst-case scenario Orange County officials had worked to prevent over the past four days. Such an event would have had a devastating impact, potentially releasing toxic chemicals into the surrounding environment and causing a large-scale disaster.
"However, we want to emphasize that evacuation zones remain in effect. We urge residents to comply with those evacuation orders," McGovern added.
Approximately 50,000 residents were ordered to evacuate on 22/5 after the MMA tank in Garden Grove, Orange County, began leaking vapor, heating up, and posed an explosion risk.
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Water was sprayed onto the chemical tank in Garden Grove, California, US on 22/5. *AP*.
Orange County firefighters warned on 23/5 that the tank was continuously heating up due to internal chemical reactions, increasing concerns about a catastrophic explosion. They continuously sprayed water to cool it, hoping to reduce pressure and limit the risk of explosion.
A day later, firefighters accessed the tank and discovered a crack, which helped relieve some internal pressure and prevented a large-scale explosion. Rescue teams worked overnight to inspect the crack.
MMA is a volatile and flammable liquid used in plastic production. The US Environmental Protection Agency states MMA causes irritation to the skin, eyes, and mucous membranes, and can affect the respiratory and nervous systems if exposure is at high concentrations or prolonged.
While officials are closely monitoring air quality, some residents have reported symptoms suspected to be from toxic gas exposure. Some schools closed and shifted to online learning as a precaution.
The chemical tank at risk of leaking on 24/5. *NBCLA*.
By Huyen Le (based on AFP, Reuters, CNN)
