Explosion threat at southern California chemical tank eliminated, firefighters say
The Guardian • • general
Key Points:
- Firefighters in southern California have successfully eliminated the threat of an explosion from an overheating chemical tank containing methyl methacrylate at a GKN Aerospace facility, following an overnight operation.
- Approximately 50,000 residents in Garden Grove were evacuated due to the tank overheating and venting vapors, but no injuries have been reported and air pollution levels remain within normal limits.
- The tank, holding 6,000 to 7,000 gallons of the chemical used in plastic parts manufacturing, developed a crack over the weekend, which helped relieve pressure and reduce the risk of a catastrophic blast.
- Firefighters have continuously sprayed the tank with water to cool it, while drones monitored temperature changes and containment barriers were set up to prevent chemical spills into the environment.
- Some residents have filed a class action lawsuit against GKN Aerospace, citing concerns over property value impacts, while the company has apologized and is working to mitigate leak risks.