In Southern California, authorities continue to seek a safe solution regarding a damaged tank containing a hazardous chemical at the GKN Aerospace plant in Garden Grove. This was reported by the Associated Press, according to UNN.
Details
The tank contains between 6,000 and 7,000 gallons of methyl methacrylate—a highly flammable substance used in the production of plastics and resins. Last week, the container overheated and began releasing vapors into the air. Due to the risk of an explosion or a large-scale leak, more than 50,000 residents received evacuation orders. Firefighters are cooling the tank with water around the clock to contain the rising temperature and pressure inside.
Why methyl methacrylate is dangerous
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, methyl methacrylate can irritate the lungs, eyes, and skin, and in high concentrations, it can cause dizziness, breathing problems, and even loss of consciousness. Medical professionals warn that the substance has a characteristic fruity odor; however, the mere fact of smelling it does not necessarily indicate a dangerous level of exposure.
Authorities reported that the tank's drainage valves are not functioning, making it currently impossible to fully pump out the chemical. The EPA stated that the most likely scenario is a controlled release of a small amount of the substance to reduce pressure. On the eve, emergency services also discovered a possible crack in the tank, which may reduce the risk of a large-scale explosion.
According to Orange County Health Officer Regina Chinsio-Kwong, in the event of an explosion, toxic vapors could spread over a significant area and pose a danger to human health. At the same time, officials assure that air quality readings outside the evacuation zone remain within normal limits. GKN Aerospace stated that it continues to cooperate with emergency responders, and the situation remains unresolved.