Efforts to stop California chemical leak in Orange County on new trajectory, officials say, as 50,000 remain evacuated
CBS News • • general
Key Points:
- Orange County crews discovered a possible pressure-relieving crack in a leaking tank containing 7,000 gallons of methyl methacrylate at GKN Aerospace, which if confirmed, could change the response strategy to the ongoing chemical leak and evacuation of 50,000 residents.
- The chemical leak, now in its fourth day, poses risks of explosion or toxic vapor release due to the tank's rising temperature, but officials are exploring innovative solutions to prevent catastrophic failure.
- A state of emergency was declared by Governor Gavin Newsom, mobilizing resources for response efforts, while the Orange County District Attorney launched an investigation and opened a tipline seeking information about the incident.
- Evacuation orders cover a one-mile radius including multiple cities, with several schools closed and evacuation centers established; free rides and discounted hotel rates are provided for evacuees.
- Surrounding counties and agencies, including Los Angeles and Riverside, are monitoring the situation closely but report no immediate threat beyond Orange County, with air quality testing showing normal levels so far.