State of Emergency in California Due to Chemical Leak

UPDATE: 1:56 P.M. – Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a state of emergency following a significant chemical leak in Garden Grove, prompting the evacuation of around 40,000 residents. There’s an ongoing risk of an explosion related to this issue.

The emergency declaration was made just after noon on Saturday, only two days after authorities first identified the leak at GKN Aerospace on Western Avenue.

“To proactively protect Californians, Governor Gavin Newsom has issued this state of emergency proclamation for Orange County as the state aids in local response efforts connected to a hazardous chemical situation at an aerospace facility, which has caused many residents to evacuate,” stated the governor’s office.

Newsom stressed that ensuring the safety of Orange County residents is the top concern. His office is working to mobilize “every state resource available” to assist local responders in keeping the communities secure.

This emergency declaration allows for a more coordinated response while authorities work to manage the situation and support families affected by the evacuation.

Caroline Thomas Jacobs, Director of California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES), emphasized her agency’s commitment to a cooperative, government-wide effort to ensure the safety of Garden Grove and surrounding areas.

“Cal OES is collaborating with local partners to bolster the ongoing hazardous materials response operation. We aim to coordinate resources, communicate essential information, and guarantee that local responders have everything they need to manage this unfolding situation safely,” said Jacobs.

Subsequent to the emergency declaration, two more evacuation centers have been established, adding to four existing centers across Orange County in cities like Garden Grove, Cypress, Huntington Beach, Anaheim, La Palma, and Fountain Valley.

It remains uncertain when residents will be able to return home, as emergency teams continue to deal with the hazardous circumstances surrounding the aerospace facility.

Earlier Updates

9:30 AM – On Friday, fire officials ordered the evacuation of thousands in Garden Grove, an Orange County suburb near Los Angeles, due to a failing chemical tank threatened to leak or explode.

Authorities reported that methyl methacrylate (MMA), a volatile chemical used in aerospace manufacturing, had been overheating and leaking from a 34,000-gallon tank since Thursday evening.

“The tank is in thermal runaway. We must ensure everyone is evacuated from the area for safety while letting the tank handle its situation,” stated Orange County Fire Authority Division Chief Craig Covey during a press conference, urging residents to leave their homes.

Evacuations have been enacted in six Orange County cities, including Garden Grove, Cypress, Stanton, Anaheim, Buena Park, and Westminster.

The tank is situated at a GKN Aerospace manufacturing plant, a UK-based company that produces parts for military and civilian aircraft, supplying major companies like Airbus and Boeing.

As of Friday, the tank was described as being “in crisis,” with approximately 6,000 to 7,000 gallons of MMA still inside.

“We have two potential outcomes: the tank could spill the 6,000 to 7,000 gallons of hazardous chemicals into the area, or it could explode, endangering adjacent tanks with fuel or chemicals,” Covey warned.

Short-term exposure to MMA can irritate the lungs and nasal passages and cause nausea and dizziness. Higher levels can lead to severe respiratory distress, according to Orange County health officer Dr. Regina Chinsio-Kwong.

Officials noted that MMA, being heavier than air, would settle into lower areas around the tank if released or during an explosion.

“No injuries have been reported at this time. Our priority remains the safety of employees, responders, and the local community. We’re focused on collaborating with emergency services to ensure safety at our Garden Grove site,” said a spokesperson for GKN Aerospace.

As of Friday afternoon, there were no signs of toxic impact on the air, but officials were continuing to monitor the situation closely.