Potential crack in California chemical tank may prevent explosion
A potential crack discovered in a tank containing hazardous methyl methacrylate at the GKN Aerospace site in Garden Grove, California, may help prevent an explosion by relieving pressure. The tank holds up to 26,500 liters of the flammable chemical. Since Friday, officials warned of possible rupture or explosion endangering nearby tanks. Evacuation orders cover tens of thousands of people in a suburb 30 miles south of Los Angeles. Orange County Fire Authority interim chief T.J. McGovern called the finding "positive intel" in a social media video. Authorities are measuring pressure and considering draining the chemicals through the crack.
Key facts
- Potential crack found in chemical tank at GKN Aerospace site in Garden Grove, California
- Tank contains methyl methacrylate, a flammable chemical used in plastics
- Capacity of 26,500 liters (7,000 gallons) of toxic material
- Evacuation orders issued Friday for tens of thousands of people
- Garden Grove is 30 miles south of Los Angeles
- T.J. McGovern is interim fire chief of Orange County Fire Authority
- Crack may relieve pressure and prevent explosion
- Authorities considering draining chemicals through the crack
Entities
Institutions
- GKN Aerospace
- Orange County Fire Authority
- Reuters
Locations
- Garden Grove
- California
- Los Angeles
- United States