Temperature rising in chemical tank at risk of exploding in California
A chemical tank in Garden Grove, California, is experiencing rising temperatures, raising concerns of a potential explosion. Approximately 40,000 residents have been evacuated due to a leak of methyl methacrylate, a flammable chemical. Emergency responders are actively working to cool the tank and prevent a catastrophic event.
- ▪The tank contains 26,400 litres of methyl methacrylate, a volatile liquid used in plastics.
- ▪Firefighters reported that the temperature of the tank has been increasing by about one degree Celsius per hour.
- ▪A blast zone map indicates severe damage could occur within 335 meters of the tank in the event of an explosion.
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Temperature rising in chemical tank at risk of exploding in CaliforniaSign up now: Get ST's newsletters delivered to your inboxThe leaking tank of methyl methacrylate forced an evacuation in the surrounding area in Garden Grove in California.PHOTO: REUTERSPublished May 24, 2026, 12:54 PMUpdated May 24, 2026, 12:54 PMLOS ANGELES – Firefighters warned on May 23 that a tank of toxic chemicals in California is heating up, adding to fears of a catastrophic explosion that has already forced tens of thousands of Californians to evacuate.About 40,000 residents were ordered to leave their homes in the Garden Grove area of Orange County, south-east of Los Angeles, on May 22 after the tank began to leak, sending fumes over a heavily populated area.The tank contains 26,400 litres of methyl…
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