California officials declare end to explosion threat from chemical tank that prompted evacuations
Kyiv • UNN
Orange County emergency crews have neutralized the threat of an explosion from a methyl methacrylate tank. Evacuations remain in effect due to the risk of hazardous chemical leaks.
In California, emergency responders announced that the threat of an explosion from a damaged chemical tank in Orange County has been eliminated following an overnight operation. This was reported by the BBC, according to UNN.
Details
According to Orange County Fire Authority Chief TJ McGovern, the threat of a so-called BLEVE — a boiling liquid expanding vapor explosion — has been neutralized.
"We are happy to report that the threat of a BLEVE is now off the table. That threat has been eliminated,"
The tank contained thousands of gallons of a flammable substance
The tank in Garden Grove contains thousands of gallons of methyl methacrylate — a highly volatile and flammable substance used in plastic manufacturing.
In recent days, officials feared a massive leak or explosion due to a crack in the tank.
Fire Chief Craig Covey reported that the tank's temperature has decreased, which is "positive news." At the same time, the evacuation order for the area remains in effect, as the risk of a chemical leak has not been completely ruled out.