2 Dead and More Injured After ‘Chemical Release’ at West Virginia Plant
The New York Times • • general
Key Points:
- Two people died and more than 30 others required medical treatment following a chemical release at the Catalyst Refiners plant in Nitro, West Virginia.
- The incident occurred around 9:30 a.m. during cleaning and decontamination activities, with a suspected chemical reaction releasing hydrogen sulfide gas.
- Hydrogen sulfide is a toxic, flammable gas that can be fatal in high concentrations and cause irritation and respiratory symptoms at lower levels.
- Twelve people were hospitalized, with symptoms ranging from skin irritation and eye redness to respiratory issues; all patients were reported to be in stable condition.
- Authorities issued and later lifted a shelter-in-place order within a one-mile radius of the refinery, and road closures were implemented as emergency response efforts continued.
