Toxic Chemical Leak in Garden Grove Leads to Evacuations

A significant leak from a large tank in Garden Grove, California, released toxic chemicals into the air, prompting evacuations as officials worked to avert a potential explosion.

On Friday, the Orange County Fire Department (OCFA) provided ongoing updates about the hazardous leak, which began Thursday. This situation forced many residents to evacuate, and schools in the vicinity had to close.

“We’ve had some success so far in cooling the tank. Its temperature has dropped to around 61 degrees, with 50 degrees being more ideal,” stated OCFA Division Director Craig Covey during a recent briefing.

A water leak at the GKN Aerospace facility—located at the intersection of Western Avenue and Lampson Avenue—was the source of the evacuation orders affecting thousands nearby. Firefighters responded after a tank holding 34,000 gallons of methyl methacrylate, a chemical utilized in plastics and manufacturing, emitted steam. Authorities reported that the temperature increase caused a safety valve to engage and release steam.

Dr. Regina Cintanar-Quan from the OC Health Authority expressed concern about the vapor produced when the chemicals react. “If this vapor enters the air and is inhaled, it could lead to serious health issues,” she warned. Symptoms from exposure can irritate airways and lungs, potentially resulting in long-term respiratory illnesses.

Furthermore, she added, “Regardless of whether the polymer leaks out, solidifies, or results in an explosion, as long as individuals remain outside of the designated evacuation area, they should be safe.”

Officials urged anyone who detects the scent of vapor to report it immediately. Garden Grove City Mayor Pro Tem George S. Bleatigham mentioned that evacuations continue, with police conducting door-to-door checks.

The city’s local website has listed hotels offering discounted rates for evacuees, and residents are encouraged to assist any elderly or vulnerable neighbors.

The evacuation zone is currently outlined as north of Trask Avenue, south of Ball Road, east of Valley View Street, and west of Dale Street. Evacuations have also expanded to parts of West Anaheim and Cypress. As of now, three evacuation centers have been set up.

• Garden Grove Sports and Recreation Center
• Cypress Recreation and Community Center
• Anaheim Savannah High School, located at 301 N. Gilbert St.

Due to the ongoing emergency, at least one school district had to postpone its high school graduation ceremony. “Kennedy High School’s graduation has been postponed,” the district confirmed on social media, adding that the new date will be announced soon.

The annual Garden Grove Strawberry Festival has canceled its parade and 5K race, citing a shortage of public safety resources. Festival organizers stated that other events are still set to proceed as planned.

Officials underscored the urgency of the situation, noting that the leaking tank poses a significant risk of a toxic spill or explosion if it undergoes “thermal runaway.” OCFA representatives, along with facility staff, are actively managing the containment and removal process.

“We appreciate your patience as we work night and day on this issue,” Covey added. “We’ll provide an update tomorrow morning regarding our progress.”

The cause of the leak remains uncertain, but law enforcement and health officials are continuing their response efforts in the area.