health

California Governor Declares State of Emergency Over Looming Chemical Disaster

Order facilitates support for 40,000 people told to evacuate Orange County as responders try to divert explosion

California Governor Declares State of Emergency Over Looming Chemical Disaster

TL;DR

  • Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency in Orange County.
  • A storage tank holding methyl methacrylate at a GKN Aerospace facility began off-gassing.
  • The tank is at risk of exploding or leaking its contents.
  • 40,000 people have been ordered to evacuate the area.
  • Firefighters' attempts to cool the tank appear to be failing.
  • Responders are working to neutralize a nearby tank and prepare for a spill.
  • Experts from across the country are being consulted for solutions.