A damaged chemical storage tank in Southern California poses a risk of explosion or rupture. The tank is experiencing increasing temperatures, despite efforts to reduce its internal heat, according to the Orange County Fire Authority. The incident occurred at a company site in Garden Grove. Authorities reported no injuries after the tank overheated and started venting vapors.
Evacuations and Safety Measures
Following the incident on Thursday, evacuation orders affected 40,000 people. Multiple shelters, including three high schools, remained open on Saturday. There is no timeline for when residents can safely return home.
Fire Authority Division Chief Craig Covey initially believed cooling efforts were effective. However, drone readings mistakenly showed only the external temperature. The actual internal temperature continues to rise.
Chemical Risks and Health Concerns
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health notes that cooling the tank is crucial. The chemical’s flashpoint is 50 degrees Fahrenheit (10 degrees Celsius). If heated, the chemical releases harmful vapors, causing respiratory problems, eye irritation, nausea, and headaches, explained Dr. Regina Chinsio-Kwong, the Orange County health officer.
On Friday evening, Covey reported the tank’s internal temperature had reached 90 degrees, up from 77 degrees earlier. Concerns exist that the tank might crack, releasing chemicals, or potentially explode. Containment barriers are in place to prevent chemical leaks into storm drains and nearby water sources.
Expert Insights and Community Impact
Purdue University engineering professor Andrew Whelton suggests that the best outcome would be a minor leak rather than a large explosion. The tank holds between 6,000 and 7,000 gallons of methyl methacrylate, used in making plastic parts. Located at GKN Aerospace, the company is committed to ensuring community safety.
Residents from Garden Grove and nearby cities, including Cypress, Stanton, Anaheim, Buena Park, and Westminster, faced expanded evacuation orders. Some residents, like Marco Solano, expressed frustration and health concerns. Solano’s anemia and ulcerative colitis worsened under stress from the evacuation.
California Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency in Orange County on Saturday. This declaration allows state resources and capabilities to support local agencies. In contrast, Disneyland, located near Garden Grove, remained unaffected by the evacuation orders.
Authorities continue to monitor the tank situation closely, focusing on public safety and environmental protection.