A major hazardous materials emergency unfolded in Southern California after a massive chemical storage tank began releasing toxic vapours into the air, forcing evacuations and triggering an urgent response from firefighters and safety officials' teams.
Authorities said the incident involved a 34,000-gallon tank at an aerospace manufacturing facility in Garden Grove, where a leak sent visible plumes into the sky and prompted concerns over airborne exposure in nearby neighbourhoods.
The incident unfolded rapidly on Thursday afternoon, leading emergency officials to establish evacuation zones and temporary shelter arrangements as crews worked to contain the release.
According to authorities, firefighters responded to the incident at approximately 3:22pm after receiving reports of a chemical release at the GKN Aerospace facility on Western Avenue.
Aerial footage later showed the tank venting hazardous material into the atmosphere as emergency personnel secured the surrounding area.
The Orange County Fire Authority confirmed the substance involved was methyl methacrylate (MMA), an industrial liquid commonly used in the production of acrylic plastics and composite materials.
Emergency officials identified the leak as significant enough to trigger ahazardous materials operationand area evacuations.
Authorities moved quickly to clear parts of the surrounding community.
According to official guidance reported by ABC7, buildings located between Western Avenue and Beach Boulevard, and between Garden Grove Boulevard and Orangewood Avenue, were evacuated while emergency teams assessed the risk posed by the chemical release.
A reunification and support centre was established at Rancho Alamitos High School to assist residents displaced by the emergency.
Source: International Business Times UK
