Arabic version: تم حل خطر انفجار خزان المواد الكيميائية في مقاطعة أورانج، كاليفورنيا
California fire officials have announced that the threat of a massive chemical tank explosion in Orange County has been eliminated following an overnight operation. The tank, which contains thousands of gallons of methyl methacrylate – a highly volatile and flammable substance used to make plastic – was at risk of either a major spillage or an explosion in recent days. According to BBC News, response teams continue to work on mitigating any potential spill risks.
The damaged tank had cracked over the weekend, prompting fears of a Boiling Liquid Expanding Vapor Explosion (BLEVE). Orange County Fire Authority Interim Chief TJ McGovern confirmed that the threat has been resolved, stating, “We are happy to report that the threat of a BLEVE is now off the table.”
Although there is currently no active leak, officials have established a reduced evacuation zone, with approximately 16,000 residents still unable to return home. Chief McGovern noted, “It’s not over yet – we still have work to do,” emphasizing the need for continued safety measures.
Emergency crews have been actively spraying the tank with water to stabilize its temperature, which had seen rapid increases. The tank, located at GKN Aerospace Transparency Systems in Garden Grove, is about 35 miles (56km) southeast of Los Angeles. The company has apologized to local residents for the incident.
Methyl methacrylate is a volatile substance used in the production of plastics and resins. It is known to irritate skin and respiratory systems, necessitating the ongoing safety precautions being taken by officials.
