Toledo Chemical Tank Explosion Prompts Evacuations and Shelter-in-Place Orders
Hundreds of residents are affected by a chemical release following an explosion at a Toledo, Ohio transport company.
A chemical tank explosion at MC Tank Transport Inc. in Toledo, Ohio, on Tuesday night prompted hundreds of residents to evacuate their homes or shelter in place Wednesday due to concerns over a toxic release and the potential for further explosions.
Visible plumes of smoke were observed billowing from the tank Wednesday morning, hours after the initial incident Tuesday evening. Some residents reported experiencing irritation in their eyes and throats, and one sheriff's deputy sought hospital treatment for feeling unwell, according to city officials.
The company stated that the tank contained glycidyl methacrylate, an industrial chemical used in the production of plastics, paints, and coatings. The incident occurred in a predominantly industrial area.
Mayor Wade Kapszukiewicz announced Wednesday morning that nearly 1,000 residents within a 1-mile radius of the explosion were instructed to evacuate overnight. An additional shelter-in-place order extended over a 3-mile radius, encompassing neighborhoods along Lake Erie and reaching into Michigan.
Health officials indicated that the chemical has primarily acted as an irritant, causing symptoms such as watery eyes, and ongoing tests are being conducted to assess the toxicity levels in the air. The chemical is in liquid form within the tank but can become a gas when released.
"There is still concern that the tank is emitting this chemical and it has the potential within 12 hours of the incident to be explosive," the mayor stated, noting the tank's capacity to hold 5,500 gallons of the substance in liquid form. The cause of the explosion remains unknown.
According to the city fire department, contact with glycidyl methacrylate can cause burning sensations in the eyes, nose, mouth, and skin. Overexposure may also lead to headaches, dizziness, fatigue, nausea, and vomiting. Karim Baroudi, director of the Toledo-Lucas County Health Department, emphasized its toxicity upon contact or ingestion and stated that efforts are underway to determine the level of airborne toxicity.
Baroudi advised residents to close their windows and to shower if they experience irritation or breathing difficulties. Medical attention is recommended for those experiencing symptoms. First responders and hazmat teams have not approached the tank due to the risk of further explosions and are reassessing the situation.
MC Tank Transport, based in Arkansas, released a statement saying the company is cooperating with emergency authorities and that company representatives are en route to Toledo. "Our immediate and overriding concern is the safety of area residents, emergency responders and our employees," the company said.