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California residents near dangerous chemical tank forced to flee homes: "You're freaking out"

Updated on: May 25, 2026 / 7:31 PM EDT / CBS News

California residents near dangerous chemical tank forced to flee homes: "You're freaking out"

TL;DR

  • 50,000 Southern California residents evacuated due to a chemical tank threat.
  • The tank at GKN Aerospace contained methyl methacrylate (MMA), a volatile industrial chemical.
  • Officials feared a thermal runaway reaction could cause the tank to explode.
  • Emergency crews made progress, reducing the risk of a BLEVE (Boiling Liquid Expanding Vapor Explosion).
  • A crack in the tank was found, releasing pressure, and temperatures stabilized.
  • Despite progress, the risk of an explosion from the core of the tank remains.
  • Evacuees described uncertainty, anxiety, and difficulty obtaining necessities like clothes and medication.
  • GKN Aerospace has a history of environmental violations, settling for nearly $1 million in 2021.
  • Air monitoring has not detected toxic releases into the surrounding community.
  • The cause of the tank failure is under investigation, and lawsuits have been filed.