science
Orange County Officials Say Chemical Tank Explosion Threat Eliminated
Fire officials confirmed a crack in a pressurized tank of methyl methacrylate at a Garden Grove aerospace plant reduced internal pressure and lowered temperature. Evacuation orders for roughly 50,000 residents remain in effect while crews continue monitoring.
May 25, 3:18 PM·1m read4 sources
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Orange County fire officials said Monday that the threat of a boiling liquid expanding vapor explosion from an overheated chemical tank has been eliminated after crews confirmed a crack that released pressure. The announcement followed an overnight operation at the GKN Aerospace Transparency Systems facility in Garden Grove.
Interim Fire Chief TJ McGovern stated the threat of a major explosion is now off the table.
Firefighters first responded Thursday after the tank containing about 7,000 gallons of methyl methacrylate began overheating and releasing gas. The chemical is used to manufacture resins and plastics. The orders later expanded to cover about 50,000 people across Garden Grove and nearby cities.
On Sunday, officials observed that a crack had formed in the tank, allowing pressure to drop. Internal temperature fell from 100 degrees to 93 degrees, according to Division Chief Craig Covey. Crews have continued spraying the tank with water to stabilize conditions.
No active leak has been detected, though officials said a spill remains possible. >"We are happy to report that the threat of a BLEVE is now off the table. " — TJ McGovern, Monday (Orange County Fire Authority) >"The crack is there. " — Craig Covey, Monday (Orange County Fire Authority) The Orange County District Attorney’s Office said it is investigating the company.
GKN Aerospace has apologized to residents. California Governor Gavin Newsom announced that President Donald Trump approved a presidential emergency declaration, allowing federal assistance through the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Evacuation orders remain active for Garden Grove, Stanton, Anaheim, Cypress, Westminster, and Buena Park.
Officials urged residents to stay out of the zones until further notice. The Environmental Protection Agency has deployed personnel to coordinate with local responders. Exposure to methyl methacrylate can irritate eyes, skin, and lungs, according to agency guidance.
