health

Newsom declares state of emergency as chemical tanks continue to overheat

Gov. Gavin Newsom (D-CA) declared a state of emergency Saturday afternoon in Orange County, California, due to a chemical leak at an aerospace facility.

Newsom declares state of emergency as chemical tanks continue to overheat

TL;DR

  • A state of emergency has been declared in Orange County, California, due to a chemical leak.
  • Overheated tanks at GKN Aerospace are at risk of exploding, prompting evacuations.
  • Methyl methacrylate, a flammable chemical used in plastics, is stored in the tanks.
  • Over 40,000 people have been told to evacuate due to the explosion risk.
  • Emergency responders are working to prevent a chemical spill or explosion, with potential environmental impact reaching the ocean.
  • State resources are being mobilized, including making state-owned properties available for shelter.